OTMJ 2.23.23

Arabian Nights

THE 56TH ANNUAL BEAUX ARTS KREWE BALL was held at Boutwell Auditorium on Feb. 17.

The Beaux Arts Krewe has been a major supporter of the collection at the Birmingham Museum of Art, and for the past 56 years, the ball has served as a fundraiser for the Krewe Acquisition Fund. These contributions have enabled the museum to spend more than $1 million to purchase important European paintings, sculptures and drawings.

Ruling over the event, the theme of which was “Arabian Nights,” was King Henry Barnes Ray Jr. He was joined by his wife, Carolyn, and Queen Alice Alden Monk, escorted by Forest Leland Whatley.

Presented as the queen’s ladies in waiting were Barbara Bugg Holloway, with trainbearer Violet Dumas Bond; Catherine Edith Driscoll, with trainbearer Kathryn Camille

See KREWE BALL, page 10

Head’s Up!

AREA CAMPS report brisk bookings for the 2023 summer season. Never fear, we’ve got details on available camp opportunities near and far in the 2023 edition of OTMJ’s Summer Camp Guide. We also take a look back as Camp Mac celebrates 75 years of life among the pines. Summer Camp Guide begins on page 18.

Photo by Hank Spencer

King Henry Barnes Ray Jr. and Queen Alice Alden Monk

Camp Mac

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PAGE 6

Murphy’s Law

Last week, I received some disappointing news: My upcoming trip to the pineapple plantation will include only a sampling snack instead of the lunch we were promised. Bummer.

Oh yes, my sister and brother-in-law and I soon will be on the road again, or more precisely, on a ship. This adventure has been expertly timed to rescue my siblings from the harsh Illinois winter. I signed up because I’d be a fool to pass up an opportunity to sit on a sunny deck with a chilled beverage in my hand.

All Ashore

ABOUT TOWN 4

NEWS 6

LIFE 8

PEOPLE 9

SOCIAL 10

PAGE 29

With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter.

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To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JO U RNA L February 23, 2023

Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald

Copy Editor: Virginia Martin

Features Writer: Donna Cornelius

Staff Writer: Anne Ruisi

Photographer: Jordan Wald

Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant

Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch

Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd

Vol. 33, No. 14

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2022 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Our fearsome threesome is positively giddy to once again be joining a couple thousand similarly motived people on the high seas, where we hope to eat fine foods, be regaled with world-class entertainment, (at least the part of the world that is willing to share inside cabins in between shows), and generally frolic as much as our stamina and knee braces will allow.

The ship is a wonderland in itself and a body could do worse to just bob around for a few days on the ocean until they plunked us back where we started. Most days, however, our ship will pull into a port, allowing us additional adventures. Amazingly thin ropes pull us alongside and the gangplank is lowered, allowing a good portion of the sailing thousands to stream onto the shore. Properly sorted and stickered, we scurry (toddle) to our assigned buses where a local guide takes charge of the day’s entertainment. We will learn history. We will see landmarks. There will be corny jokes. It’s all great fun.

The excursions are pretty wide-ranging, but my little crew does not range very far. Our booking rules include no submarines (that was mine), no helicopters (my sis-

Over the Mountain Views

RISE Up

ter’s), and no encounters with oversized birds. That last rule was implemented after our Canadian “Fun with Falcons” excursion where we lined up with chunks of raw meat on our sleeves to entice a large hawk to land on our arms. I’ll admit, it was fun, but once is enough. We don’t sign up for kayaking or rock climbing or anything that involves upper body strength. Actually, anything that involves strength at all. Not only are we ill-equipped in that arena, we are on vacation. We set out to make it ALEAP situation (as little effort as possible). If the tour description says “strenuous,” it is right out. Sometimes, “moderate” puts us over the edge. We will venture off the bus, but not into anything that involves exertion.

Whether our excursion takes us inland or simply onto another boat, it is expected that someone will give us food of some kind. Given that we will have been eating up until the moment we disembarked the ship, you would think this would be unnecessary, which of course, it is, but you’d have a hard time convincing my fellow passengers. I guarantee that there are people on the phone right now wailing about the plantation lunch/snack swap. On some excursions, eating is the whole point. If we are docked in Maine, everyone will want a lobster roll. If a town has a famous doughnut shop, we must come out with one in each hand. I’ve tried mead and goat cheese on Prince Edward Island and had homemade oat cakes served to me by nice church ladies in Nova Scotia while a kilted trio played Scottish folk songs. The songs might have been enough, but the oatcakes were a nice touch. The plantation lunch/swap snack will be fine. We’ll live through it. I’ll just throw a granola bar in my purse.

RISE, Vestavia High School’s semester-long student service project, is holding the annual races to benefit the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program at UAB on Sat., March 4 at the high school. The Superhero Fun Run, begins at 8:30 a.m. The Rebel 5K, race begins at 10 a.m. Fun Run starts at Vestavia High Football Stadium, Rebel 5K at the high school’s front parking lot. Below, Superheros Anne Lauren Ingram and Jack Talley and left color run participants, at last year’s RISE event.

Sue Murphy

We will learn history. We will see landmarks. There will be corny jokes. It’s all great fun.

SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK

Junior board president says volunteering at Cornerstone Schools is family tradition

THE LAST RUN Mercedes Marathon ends its 20-year reign

A SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENT Altamont students send light to dark winter in Ukraine

SPRING FASHIONS

Local fashion pros talk about what’s trending this season

Rebel 5K Color Run and Superhero Fun Run Returns Journal file photos by Jordan Wald

file photo by Jordan Wald

Through April

Lenten Lunch Series

6

Cathedral Church of the Advent in downtown Birmingham holds its annual series of Lenten Lunches featuring guest speakers who offer a short service, followed by lunch. When: 12:05 p.m. Where: Cathedral Church of the Advent

Thurs., Feb. 23

An Evening With Josh Blue

The comedian, who has cerebral palsy, will perform at this benefit for disability rights and resources, which wants to establish its first fully equipped ADA resource center, The Next Step Resource Center. When: reception at 5:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. Where: Red Mountain Theatre

Restoring Hope Gala

This fundraiser for Blanket Fort Hope, a nonprofit Christian organization to help children who have survived sex trafficking, will feature meteorologist James Spann as special guest emcee. Live and silent auctions and games will be part of activities for the evening. When: 6 - 9 p.m. Where: The Club

Feb. 24-26

O’Neal Library Book Sale

The Friends of the O’Neal Library will hold its annual book sale with proceeds to support the library’s teen and adult programs. When: Feb. 24-25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Feb. 26, 2-5 p.m. Where: O’Neal Library, Mountain Brook

A Chorus Line

The Alabama School of Fine Arts Theatre presents the legendary Broadway musical, “A Chorus Line.”

When: Feb. 24-25 at 7 p.m., Feb. 26 t 2:30 p.m. Where: Alabama School of Fine Arts

Sun., March 5

Brunch with the Bachelors

The zoo’s pachyderm party is an exclusive event with your favorite bachelors: Bulwagi, Luti, and Gadze. Participants will enjoy brunch at Safari Peak while the elephants roam close by, followed by a special elephant interaction. p.m. Where:

Southern Voices 2023

The acclaimed literary festival celebrating Southern authors is back with lectures, workshops and performances. When: Times vary Where: Hoover Library

Fri., Feb. 24

Glenwood Big Top Gala

Glenwood Junior Board is hosting this event to support services for children with autism. Live music, a casino, a silent auction and a silent disco where guests can dance the night away. When: 8 p.m. Where: Haven in Birmingham’s Lakeview District

Sat. Feb. 25

Hoover Arbor Day Celebration

The city of Hoover celebrates its 24th annual Arbor Day celebration hosted by the Hoover Beautification Board will feature free trees while supplies last, a fourth grade Arbor Day essay and poster contest, food trucks and other activities. When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: Aldridge Gardens

Unless U Got Talent Fundraiser

The most entertaining night of the year as students from Unless U partner with local volunteers as they compete for the title of Unless U Got Talent Champions. Some of this year’s acts include a game show, body building, square dancing, and a gospel choir. When: 6:30 p.m.

Where: Lyric Theatre

Dogwood Dink Pickleball Tournament

The Dogwood Dink brings pickleball enthusiasts together for a day of fun and enthusiastic game play!

Registration closed Feb. 14. When: 9 a.m. Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center

Birmingham Does Broadway: ICONS

Christopher Confessore and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra will showcase music from Les Miserables, Evita, West Side Story, The Music Man, and many more in this yearly crowd-favorite performance.

Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center When: 7 p.m.

Dinner & Diamonds

This benefit for the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation will include dinner, entertainment, and silent and live auctions.

When: 7-11 p.m. Where: Vestavia Country Club

Tues., Feb. 28

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association teaches why Alzheimer’s Disease is not a normal part of aging. When: 6

Where: Hoover Library

Junior Board Leader Volunteering at Cornerstone Schools is Family Tradition

Allie Elliott, center, with her parents

Judy and Craig Beatty support Cornerstone schools.

Cornerstone grade levels range from pre-kindergarten to high school, and the school provides an affordable alternative to public school, according to the schools’ website. While it’s a private school, every student receives tuition assistance and Cornerstone is “committed to providing each child with solid academics, character development and an opportunity for a deeper faith,” the website adds.

Volunteering at Cornerstone is meaningful, Elliott said. Her time mentoring the teenager “was really just a blessing” because she got to know the girl and help her. And she said she enjoys maintaining her family connection.

By Anne Ruisi

Allie Elliott’s support for Cornerstone Schools of Alabama goes back to her childhood, when her parents were early supporters of the private Christian schools in Woodlawn and Roebuck.

She said her parents had talked about Cornerstone since she was very young.

“We’ve always been involved as a family, and then when I got to be an adult, I decided to join the junior board.”

She’s now president of the junior board, which is organizing the 18th annual Schoolhouse Rock fundraiser on March 10 at Regions Field. It’s a popular event that is expected to draw about 500 guests.

The Mountain Brook resident is in her second year as president of the school’s junior board, which is one of three service corps that work to support Cornerstone. The others are the Women’s Service board and the board of directors. Elliott said she’s been on

March 3-4

Concert: The Planets

Gustav Holst’s The Planets anchors a program that includes works by Claude Debussy and Avnar Dorman, performed by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. When: 7 p.m. Where: Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall

Exceptional Foundation

Chili Cookoff

The foundation’s 19th annual Chili Cookoff is a family-friendly event featuring live music, a kid zone, beverages and all the chili you can eat. Proceeds benefit the foundation’s programs for adults and youth with intellectual disabilities. When: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Brookwood Village

St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser

The Homewood Rotary Club presents an evening of entertainment, with a buffet dinner inspired by the tastes of Ireland, music by Celtic band Hooley, live and silent auctions and more. Proceeds support scholarships for deserving Homewood High School seniors through the club’s education foundation. When: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Where: Valley Hotel Homewood.

the junior board since 2014.

Her involvement began before that. When she was growing up, the family attended school events, such as sports matches and graduation ceremonies, and showed their support at fundraisers and public service projects, such as the Angel Tree at Christmas.

“My parents have such a love for the school,” she said, noting her father, Craig Beatty, is on the school’s executive committee and board of directors.

Elliot said she continued to volunteer at Cornerstone after she grew up, including as a mentor to a teen girl.

Now, as president of the junior board, her primary function is planning the Schoolhouse Rock fundraiser, but it’s not a job she does alone, she said. Junior board members and the teachers and staff members help them, including Sami DeShazo, the school’s volunteer and special events coordinator, Elliott said.

“It’s definitely a team effort,” she said.

Cornerstone’s mission is to inspire and develop critically thinking and compassionate young people in a Christ-centered learning community that is committed to academic excellence and character development.

Elliott’s near future includes finishing her second year as the junior board’s president. Next year she’ll will serve as past president.

Elliott is a civil engineer who recently took a break from her job to stay home with her 15-month-old son.

“He’s just changing all the time and it is so much fun,” to be with him, Elliott said.

If You Go

The 18th annual Schoolhouse Rock fundraiser is March 10 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Regions Field.

The event promises a night of rockin’ fun, with live music by Just a Few Cats, dancing and games such as a wine toss and diamond drop. There’s also a silent auction with items up for bid. Complimentary beer, wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Tickets are $60 in advance and $65 at the door.

Joyful and Whimsical Linda Ellen Price’s Paintings on Display in One Woman Show at Beverly McNeil Gallery

Beverly McNeil Gallery is presenting a one woman show created from the art of Linda Ellen Price. The show will run from March 9 through April 15.

The gallery director in a statement described Price’s art as “joyful and full of whimsy” and said each one tells a story.

“Her colorful palette and feminine subjects are signature to her work and you can feel the delight with which she paints,” said Director Brittany Barnes.

Price’s work is highly collected now. But her career almost didn’t happen at all.

Price, who lives in northeast Alabama, on her website said she was discouraged from art as a child.

“ An event in my life as a fifth grader almost made me abandon art

forever. My teacher had me destroy my Christmas project due to it being crudely original as compared to the other children’s commercially made, beautiful displays,” Price said. “I decided I would be a nurse.”

She did become a nurse, and after that she enrolled in an art class with Birmingham artist Barbara Evans, who encouraged her painting. She went on to study with other artists and in workshops.

On March 9, a reception will honor her and mark the beginning of her show at Beverly McNeil Gallery. The reception will be 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and feature live music from jazz duo Choko Aiken & Abe Becker. The works featured in this show can be viewed at beverlymcneilgallery. com/exhibitions.

MARCH 3-5

Cinderella Alabama Ballet

The timeless tale of Cinderella is transfigured through classical ballet with elegant dancing, spectacular costumes, and stunning scenery.

When: Performance times vary

Where: BJCC Concert Hall

Shamrock Shindig

This St. Patrick’s Day-themed fundraiser for ARC of Central Alabama hosted by the nonprofit’s Junior Board will feature food, drinks, live music, a photo booth and other activities.

When: 6 p.m. Where: Haven

Under the Stars Spring Gala

This benefit for the Alabama Waldorf School will feature dinner, dancing

Sat., March 18

Kids Day

This annual fundraiser for the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program at UAB will feature a parking lot full of trucks, including emergency vehicles and construction equipment, plus 80 superhero and Disney characters for youngsters to meet.

When: 9-11 a.m. Where: Vestavia Hills

Hearts in Harmony Details Set

Tickets are on sale for the Hoover Service Club’s annual gala, Hearts in Harmony, at the Hoover Country Club on March 18.

The gala is the club’s largest fundraiser of the year. Money raised will be used to provide needs-based scholarships to graduates from Hoover and Spain Park high schools and provide support for local organizations throughout the year. Tynette Lynch

Tynette Lynch, CEO of Aldridge Gardens and director of hospitality

and tourism for the City of Hoover is this year’s honoree.

The emcee will be Will Lochamy from The Morning Blend with Reg and Will from Birmingham Mountain Radio. Silent and live auctions are among the activities at the gala, with Hoover City Councilman John Lyda as auctioneer.

To reserve tickets, which are $135 each, go to HooverServiceClub.com and click on the Hearts in Harmony invitation.

For the Birds Fundraising Event

This charity event to benefit the Alabama Wildlife Center’s rehabilitation clinic and education programs will feature dinner, drinks, dancing and a lot of fun. When: 6-9:30 p.m. Where: The Harbert Center

Taste of Teal Gala

The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation is holding its annual gala to support gynecological cancer research and patients. When: 6 p.m.

Where: The Wynfrey Hotel

Fri., March 10

Pilobolus Dance

For 50 years the Pilobolus Dance company has performed around the globe at events ranging from the Oscars to the Olympics, now they are coming to perform in Birmingham.

When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Alabama School of Fine Arts

Sat., March 11

Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast

The Homewood-Mtn. Brook club’s annual Pancake Breakfast will be a sit-down event, but take out boxes will be available for anyone who prefers to grab their pancakes and run! Tickets are $7 (kids under 5 eat free). Proceeds benefit the Homewood City Schools foundation and other organizations that support kids and families in our communities. When: 7 a.m. - noon

Where: The Exceptional Foundation.

Village2Village 10K/7.5K Run

The Publix GreenWise Market Village to Village Race follows a route that includes Mountain Brook’s shopping villages, with a Kids Zone to keep the young ones entertained. When: 7:30-11 a.m.

Where: Begins and ends at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook.

FACTORY Clearance SALE!

Former President to be Inducted into Rotoract Hall of Fame

By Anne Ruisi

About a year after she moved to Birmingham, Los Angeles native Brass Bralley joined the Rotaract Club because she thought it would be a good way to get to know more people in the community.

Her involvement in Rotary’s sister organization for young professionals began in 2017 and eventually led to her leading the club as president during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. On Feb. 25, she’ll be recognized for her service with induction into the organization’s Hall of Fame at the Foundation Ball.

“I was very honored to be nominated,” said Bralley, a Mount Laurel resident who is one of six Rotoract members to be inducted during the ball at the Birmingham Museum of Art.

“Rotaract has played a huge role in my life to just kind of get me plugged into Birmingham and the friendships that I have today in the professional realm and opportunities I’ve had,” she added.

Leading the club from July 2020 to July 2021, as the COVID virus became entrenched across the country, presented

a challenge in how to navigate organizing programs for the 300 members and organizing service work when people were in lockdown or gatherings were restricted.

“Having to kind of rewrite the playbook for how to do everything was our biggest challenge for myself and my board,” Bralley said.

Keeping members engaged and from feeling like they were disconnected from each other while stuck at home was a major challenge, Bralley said.

The club’s meetings, where members would mix and listen to a guest speaker, were still held twice a month, but most were virtual.

“I think we had a couple over the course of the year that we were able to do in person,” she added.

Service projects had to take a new tack, focusing more on volunteer work that could be done outdoors. There were a lot of cleanup projects at parks, for example. “We had an event at Avondale Elementary School where we cleaned up outside of there,” Bralley said.

Learn, Socialize, Serve

Rotoract has a three-pillar approach to its engagement. “Learn, socialize and serve is our motto,” Bralley said.

Learning happens at the club’s luncheons held twice a month. Guest speakers, such as industry leaders, will come to the lunches, and professional development events are held for members.

Socializing is another important aspect, with monthly events that support local businesses, such as happy hours and fundraisers.

“We just want to bring people together,” Bralley said.

Service is expressed in projects to help others, sometimes in partnership with area nonprofits. A major Rotoract service project focuses on literacy and academic achievement in local schools.

One of those projects is Ready2Read, a reading comprehension program for second graders in Birmingham City Schools, which also

involves club members reading to students. During the worst of the pandemic, when club members couldn’t get to the classrooms, volunteers recorded themselves reading stories, which were sent to the schools for the students to hear.

Bralley lauded the club’s leadership, which is leading members through a return to normalcy.

“It’s been a team effort over the last, you know, three years of getting folks back and engaged” in club activities, she said.

At 31, Bralley will age out of Rotoract when she turns 35, but she remains as active as she can, considering she’s due to deliver her first child, a boy, in just a few weeks.

After her son is born, she’ll be able to take him to events as part of the Junior Rotoract program. Bralley said it’s important because there is a misconception that having children means you can’t participate as fully in Rotoract.

“There’s been a movement over the last couple of years to really keep our new parents engaged,” she said. “I’m excited to get involved with some of that part of our club.”

Rotoract Names 6 to Hall of Fame

The Rotaract Club of Birmingham will induct six people into its Hall of Fame at the Feb. 25 Rotaract Black and White Foundation Ball in recognition of their years of service.

The inductees are Patrick Talley and Brass Bralley, Rotaract Club of Birmingham; Judy Crittenden and John Smola of the Rotary Club of Birmingham; Caleb Rotton, Sunset Rotary Club and Carol Argo, Rotary District 6860 governor.

All proceeds from the Foundation Ball support Rotaract’s main signature service projects, such as Ready2Succeed, a mentorship program designed to provide highachieving high school students in Birmingham City Schools with guidance, encouragement and resources to prepare for the college admissions process.

Another is Ready2Read, a reading comprehension program that provides a classroom library to second-grade classrooms throughout Birmingham City Schools and promotes literacy, reading comprehension skills and a love of reading.

The Last Run

Mercedes Marathon Ends Its 20-Year Reign

After more than 20 years in the Magic City, the final Mercedes Marathon weekend was held Feb. 10-12.

The event was organized in 2001 to fund programs at The Bell Center for Early Intervention, a Birmingham-based organization that offers early intervention services for infants and toddlers at risk of developmental delays.

Since then, the Mercedes Marathon has continued to support The Bell Center, raising more than $3 million, while offering a premier event that drew runners from around the country and the world as it was a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. Local support for the marathon has been strong since its inception.

The weekend’s finale was the Jim ‘n Nick’s Post Race Block Party at Boutwell Auditorium on Feb. 12. Barbecue and beer were on hand, along with live entertainment and massages. Runners received awards and they celebrated with family, friends and the Birmingham community.

Mercedes Marathon founder and chairwoman Valerie Cuddy, second from left, with event volunteers from left, Ashley Gooden, Audrey Panell and Rylei Ghesco on Sat., Feb. 11.

Julie Conerly with her son Joshua participated in the Superhero 5K. Top, Kids Run.

Brass Bralley

LIFE

Spring Fashion Forecast

Local Retailers Discuss Latest Trends; Dogwood Festival Includes Fashion Show; Starry Night Features Fashion Star

Bezshan Dolatabadi B. Prince

TRENDS Fuller pant legs in cropped and full length styles. Lots of color and prints.

DIDN’T SEE THIS FASHION

COMING A big resurgence in tone on tone monochromatic dressing.

MUST HAVE A great dress, a great blazer and cool sneakers.

SPRING BREAK AT THE BEACH Does this mean am I going? Lol. Yes Destin. If what to wear …Ulla Johnson and Johnny Was bathing suits with matching cover ups. Reinhard Plank straw hats and Beek flip flops.

MOST COMMON FASHION MISTAKE Not being yourself. Don’t be forced into a style or trend that is not you

B. Prince 271 Rele St., Mountain Brook

TRENDS Going into 2023, we continue to see an increase in higher neck and waistlines. The popularity of Balletcore for streetwear has also influenced softer colors and sheer fabrics in the dance community.

DIDN’T SEE THIS FASHION COMING Ruffles. Ruffles are added as accents to leotards, bra tops, and booty shorts and are popular for convention outfits.

COLORS AND PATTERNS

Pastels, jewel tones, and florals are what we’re seeing most in Spring fashion.

MUST HAVE Every dancer needs a pair of turning shoes for practice. Pirouette half soles and BlochSox are the most popular.

MOST COMMON FASHION

MISTAKE The most common fashion mistake in dance is not having the proper undergarments. Seamless nudewear is a must for every dancer.

Applause Dancewear 1629 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Find All Things Fashion at Dogwood Festival Fashion Show

Add an afternoon of fashion showcasing Vestavia Hills retailers to your style calendar on March 9.

The Dogwood Festival Fashion Show will feature all things fashion, just in time to get ready for Easter, spring break, bridal events and baby showers. The event, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., will be held at the Civic Center and is presented by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

A variety of businesses will be represented, including catering, jewelry, tanning, salons, florists, cakes, shoes, dry cleaning, bridal registry, stationery and event rentals.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, online at vestaviahills.org or by calling 205823-5011.

The fashion show is one of a variety of events being held as part of the annual Dogwood Festival, which began Feb. 11 with a tea party for children and runs through April. Events include self-guided tours of the city’s historical sites, luncheons, community festivals, a prayer breakfast, a battle of the bands featuring middle and high school bands, concerts and other activities.

TRENDS Floral appliques, maxilength everything, denim, and big bags

DIDN’T SEE THIS FASHION COMING Puffy everything… Now down to the shoes. We’ve seen puffy and pillow bags a lot last year, and now it seems like the trend is bubbling down all the way to the feet. I’m interested to see how some people will work this into more timeless looks.

COLORS AND PATTERNS Green! And black for summer…

MUST HAVE The do-it-all, carry-all tote. The past few years have all been about mini bags, and I can say for myself I am happy to see big bags making a comeback –both in style and practicality.

SPRING BREAK AT THE BEACH

Again, the big tote to carry all your beach necessities, colorful caftans –like our famed Delightful Caftan–to match the joyful atmosphere, and comfortable slide sandals to take you all around town.

MOST COMMON FASHION MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE Dressing for trends and not for yourself! Our motto is “Wear What Makes You Happy” and we hope our clothes do just that.

Frances Valentine, The Summit, 225 Summit Blvd Suite 97

Starry Night Assistance League Fundraiser to Feature Designer Heidi Elnora

The Assistance League of Birmingham’s signature fundraiser, One Starry Night, is a party with a purpose on March 9 at The Club.

Chairwomen Mary Ann Wade and Molly Bee Bloetscher are planning a night with a silent auction, seated din-

TRENDS Everyone is back to traveling again and the spring collections reflect a resort-type feel with bright, happy colors, flowy fabrics, and eclectic prints.

DIDN’T SEE THIS FASHION COMING I can’t say I would have envisioned the prairie dress and tennis shoe trend.

COLORS AND PATTERNS MUST HAVE Pretty shades of turquoise, periwinkle, magenta and light greens. Prints range from classic awning stripes to funky boho prints and embroidery.

SPRING BREAK AT THE BEACH “Beach to bistro” is a big category in fashion right now, with kimonos, sheer tunics, and lightweight, fun print dresses that can be worn as a beach coverup or paired with sandals and fun accessories to go out to lunch or dinner. Our Tin Marin totes are hand-woven in Mexico and can carry all of your beach essentials.

MOST COMMON FASHION MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE Prioritizing trends over what looks good on you and fits your own personal style.

Town & Country Clothes, 74 Church St, Mountain Brook

ner, live auction led by Christie King with C King Benefit Auctions, and music from The Bassmen.

The brightest star of the evening is national television personality Heidi Elnora, an Alabama entrepreneur who focuses on wedding dress design and inspirational speaking.

Elnora became well known as a contestant on the second season of “Project Runway” and later starred in her own reality show, “Bride by Design,” which is airing on Discovery+. Her collection of wedding dresses and occasion wear is available exclusively

Kathleen Roberts

Flip Flops & What Nots

TRENDS Platform Shoes, Cropped Jeans, Bright Colors

DIDN’T SEE THIS FASHION COMING Finally moving away from all black, but it’s my job to see to see the new thing coming!

COLORS AND PATTERNS Hot Pink and Kelly Green. Fun Prints MUST HAVE Archies Arch support, Flip Flops completely water proof with arch support.

MOST COMMON FASHION MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE Not trying new things, colors. Staying stuck in a rut saying, “I can’t wear that!” You never know until you try something new!

Flip Flops & What Nots, 4137 White Oak Dr., Vestavia Hills

at the heidi elnora atelier in Birmingham and Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue in New York City. The evening celebration helps raise funds to support the philanthropic programs Operation School Bell, Operation Literacy and PrimeTime Treasures, serving both children in need and seniors of greater Birmingham area.

Katie Wade Faught Applause Dancewear

Beth Kazinec Frances Valentine

Laurel Bassett Town & Country Clothes

Heidi Elnora

Courtesy

Parker Sadler Avery Achieves Eagle Scout Ranking

Parker Sadler Avery earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Boy Scouts of America, in October, and on Jan. 8, a Court of Honor ceremony was held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church to recognize and celebrate his achievement.

Parker, along with two fellow Troop 53 Scouts, received his Eagle pin with family and friends in attendance. The ceremony represented the culmination of Parker’s many years of dedication and service to Troop 53 and his community.

His Eagle Scout project was centered on early childhood development. Parker designed and built an outdoor play kitchen and picnic table for a playground at his church, Mountain Brook Baptist Church. His building plans came to fruition through donations and assistance with construction from family and friends. Parker provided mentorship and direction to many younger scouts from Troop 53 who helped with his project, as well.

Parker’s older brother, Jackson, also is an Eagle Scout, having earned the rank in 2021. They both are role models for their younger brother, Marshall,

who is also a scout in Troop 53 on his journey to Eagle rank.

Parker is active in his youth group at church and has had an outstanding senior year on Mountain Brook High School’s varsity football defensive line. He also enjoys playing golf, recreational and church league basketball, and spending time with family and friends.

Parker is excited to attend the University of Alabama in the fall.

Payne Baxley Awarded Eagle Scout Rank

Payne Baxley in January earned the highest rank awarded by the Boy Scouts and now is an Eagle Scout. Baxley comes from a strong scouting family. His grandfather, uncle and two cousins are all Eagle Scouts.

Payne is a member of Troop 53 from St. Peter’s Anglican Church. Since joining Troop 53, Payne has held several leadership positions. He has been a patrol leader, an assistant patrol leader and an outdoor ethics guide. Payne also was elected by his troop members to the Order of the Arrow. While a Boy Scout, Payne completed 28 merit badges.

For Payne’s Eagle project, he

The journey to mend his heart led

Ward Park for Birmingham Parks and Recreation. He enlisted the help of fellow Troop 53 members along with donations from friends and family for the project.

Payne had leftover money from his fundraising efforts, so he made a donation of $1,100 to the Alabama Audubon Society.

Payne is a sophomore at Mountain Brook High School, where he runs cross-country and track. Payne is the son of Mary Katharine and Keener Baxley. He and his family attend Canterbury United Methodist Church.

Max Joseph Benton Earns Eagle Rank

Max Joseph Benton of Troop 53 of the Boy Scout’s Vulcan District was recognized for earning the rank of Eagle Scout on Jan. 8 at a Court of Honor Ceremony at St. Peter’s Anglican Church. Two fellow scouts were honored at the same event.

Max completed his Eagle Scout ranking on Aug. 11 under the leadership of Scoutmaster Franklin Bradford.

Max, a ninth grader at Mountain Brook Junior High, has dedicated many years to his Eagle Scout journey. He

including patrol leader. He was nominated for the Order of the Arrow and managed a troop cleanup project at all four of Mountain Brook School System’s elementary schools.

He has earned 23 merit badges, including the backpacking merit badge, for which he did 11 nights of isolated wilderness camping and 75 miles of backpacking.

He said throughout his scouting career that he wanted his Eagle Scout project to benefit Mountain Brook Elementary. After meeting with Principal Ashley McCombs and several city officials, he began work to remodel the amphitheater on the periphery of the school playground.

With the help of fellow scouts, he reconstructed the wooden stage at the center of the amphitheater and paved the gravel surround as well as adding a new portion of fence adjacent to the stage.

This endeavor took months of preparation, from collecting donations to organizing scout volunteers to help build the project. The outdoor amphitheater now provides a safe place for the children and staff of the school to use for outdoor teaching and recreation.

Max is not only an active member in his scouting troop but also is a member of the Mountain Brook Junior High track team, and the Mountain Brook Mountain Biking team.

Outside of school-related events, he is an active member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church and enjoys traveling across the country with his

Vestavia Hills’ Mitchell Awarded Eagle Rank

Philip Mitchell was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout at Dawson Church Troop 83 on Nov. 10.

Philip began scouting at an early age and earned the Arrow of Light as a Cub Scout. Since joining Troop 83, Philip has held several leadership positions, including assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, senior patrol leader, historian and instructor. Philip earned 22 merit badges and attended Seabase high adventure.

Philip’s Eagle Scout project involved planning, designing, building and installing a dog agility course for the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. The project included building six exercise sets for the health and well-being of dogs awaiting adoption.

Philip is a senior at Vestavia Hills High School and is a member of the Speech and Debate Team. In his spare time, he enjoys fencing as well as learning about computers.

Philip’s parents are Joseph and Vivian Mitchell. He is a member of the Church of the Highlands. Philip plans to attend college in the fall and

Qua was born with tricuspid atresia that required a series of open heart surgeries as an infant. But as a teen, his health took a dramatic turn. Qua’s pediatrician and cardiologist recognized something wasn’t right with his heart and sent him to Children’s of Alabama. Our team was standing by when he arrived by helicopter, and within two weeks he received a new heart. He rebounded quickly and was back at home a few weeks later, thanks to the expert heart team here at Children’s of Alabama.

Payne Baxley

Philip Mitchell

Parker Sadler Avery

Max Joseph Benton

Qua Heart Transplant Survivor

SOCIAL

KREWE BALL

page one

Butrus and Virginia Florence Vogtle, with trainbearer Celia Frances Davis.

Princesses presented were Eugenie Joyce Allen, Sara Frances Berte, Susannah Bristow Blount, Gilder Scout Carruthers, Courtney Alice Clark, Anne Carlton Clegg, Elizabeth Patterson Cooper, Sally Grace Cooper, Evelyn Claire Couvillon, Callie Ryan Dukes, Emily Bricken Evans, Mary Catherine Fowlkes, Anna Beverley Hoyt, Elizabeth Grace Hulsey, Salter Conary Hydinger, Marilyn Douglas Joyce, Adaline

Elizabeth Lawson, Rosemary Katherine Lee, Katherine Elisabeth McDonald, Louisa Eleanor Patrick, Theresa Elizabeth Patton, Caroline Warner Payne, Alexandra Catherine Ritchie, Caroline McClendon Ritchie, Marguerite Alice Sprain, Georgia Ellen Stewart, Lauren Campbell Walston and Anna Caroline Williamson.

The king’s dukes were John Fletcher Abele Jr., Arthur Philip Cook Jr., Carey Parks Gilbert II, Leland Hull, Henry Barnes Ray III, Thomas Atkinson Roberts Jr., James Whitfield Waitzman Jr. and Guy Allen Weatherford.

The king’s trainbearers were Sally

Katherine DeBuys and Raleigh Kent

Seth and Forsyth Crommelin, Claiborne and Jane Huston Crommelin

Eugenie Allen and Marguerite Sprain

Margaret Porter, Alice Monk and Jeanne Monk

Webster Ray, Clay Radcliffe, Henry and Carolyn Ray, Margaret and Barnes Ray

John Marks, Allen Weatherford, Leland Hull, and Forest Whatley

From

Trey, Ann Carlton and Collins Clegg

Patty B, Dede and Dave Driscoll

Bibb, Hamilton and Miller Girvin

Scott, Sara Frances and Dena Berte

Frances Blair, Annie James Clay, Laura Thomas Clay, Laurie Price Ray, Margaret Leary Ray, Katherine Estes Vaughn, Catherine Sullins Whatley, Charles Sheppard Caldwell Whatley, and James Vann Worthen, Jr.

The queen’s guards were David Mitchell Benck, Arthur Phillip Cook III, Dean Dillard Matthews, Guy Kenneth Mitchell III, William Kelly Nicrosi II, Charles Walton Redden, George Malcolm Taylor

and William Copeland Wood III.

The queen’s trainbearers were Elizabeth Brockman Bankhead, Juliet Hamilton Girvin, Margaret Bibb Girvin, Julianna Elizabeth Little, Carleton Leighton Neighbors, Lela Jane Owenby, Annabel Jane Wallace, Evelyn Bransford Wallace and Sally Comer Worthe.n

Serving as pages for the festivities were Ann Evans Allen, Katherine Love Allen, Kathryn Pritchard Allen, Mary Carolyn Wittichen

Anderson, Virginia Grace Blair, William Wade Brooke III, Charlotte Ann Chambliss, Evelyn Palmer Davis, Emma-Kathryn Day, Marion Elizabeth DeBuys, Livia Rast DeBuys, Catherine Jane Emanulsen, Jane Briggs Harrell, Nancy Ryals Little, Jane Ellis Karpeles, Lacy Kay Karpeles, Virginia Wallace McCoin, Catherine Jane Mears, Eleanor Gresham Nelson, Drennen Ireland Nichols and Emily Hughston Nichols.

Also serving as pages were Carolyn Hill Noble, Barbara Wallace Rich, Charles Stewart Robinson, Elizabeth-Anne Donald Robinson, Phoebe-Grey Crist Robinson, Sarah Turnley Robinson, Catherine Forman Samuels, Caroline Reid Samuels, Margaret Ann Spann, Anne Louise Sullivan, Clarke Keenon Sullivan, Emma Catherine Sullivan, Lillian Rose Sullivan, Sarah Frances Sullivan, Stephanie Ann Terrell, Carolyn Hill Noble Bell Trimmer, Steven Robert Thompson III, Emily Hartman Tomlinson, Catherine Jane Woods and Gabriella Oliver Worthen.

Guy Mitchell, Chuck Redden and William Nicrosi

Krewe Ball pages

Party Atop Red Mountain

mood lighting.

Exhibiting prowess with steps such as the tango, samba, East Coast swing, waltz and out-standing twists were Edna and Ken Alderman, Linda and Spencer Bachus, Redonda and Lowell Broom, Cheree and Eric Carlton, P.A. and Beatty Carmichael, Patty and Norman Clay, Bettie Davenport and Susan and Steve Dobbs.

“A Winter Night and Lights” was the theme for a Coronet Dance Club event Feb. 10 at Vestavia Country Club.

A buffet dinner including beef tenderloin, Jack Daniel’s glazed chicken breast, wild rice and vegetable medley followed by tiramisu was prepared by chef Stephen McCary.

The dinner table centerpieces, decorated by party chairwomen Cathy Tracey and Carol Powell, were made of white hydrangea, magnolia and French pussy willows highlighted by

Keeping the dance floor full were Dr. Anne England and Del Bradford, Linda and Mike Gooldrup, Marsha and Don Hire, Gloria Hudson and Jack Mendel, Judy and David Long, and club President Marha McCarty and Buford McCarty.

Guests also included Dena and Wallace Parker, Carol and Phillip Powell, Sally and Bob Stanley, Tammy and Rick Towns, Kathy and Bob Tracy, Tammy and Rick Towns, Shelly and Steve Watkins, Joy and

Steve Wilkes, Rebecca Wingett and Greg Green, Joyce and Jim Talbot, Bess and Bill Owen, and Glenda and Jim Sparacio. ❖

Lowell and Redonda Broom, Michael and Linda Gooldrup, Judy and David Long

Buford and Marsha McCarty, Gloria Hudson and Jack Mendel

Joy and Steve Wilkes, Nelle Freeman

Carol and Phillip Powell Linda and Spencer Bachus

Marsha and Don Hire and Bettie Davenport

Steve and Susan Dobbs

Cha Cha Dance Club Gets Together for Supper and a Bit of Music From the King

The Cha Cha Dance Club members met at the home of their president, Vickie Rader for their annual fall get together.

A light supper and select beverages were provided by Vaughn and Company catering.

Special visitor “Elvis Presley” was there to greet everyone with a song or two as they arrived. ❖

Above, members of the Cha Cha Dance Club gathered at the home of Vicie Rader. Left, “Elvis” with Tricia Kirk, Margaret Murdock and Buffy Miller.

Mary Charles' Doll House Dolls, Doll Houses and Minatures

Mary Charles’ Doll House

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from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. sure all information is correct, address and phone number!

initial and fax back within 24 hours.

from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, run as is. We print the paper Monday. for your prompt attention.

New, Collectible Antique Dolls Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm

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Date: May 2010

To: Mary Charles

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This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the June 3, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please

This is your ad proof for the OTMJ for the November 15, 2018issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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Jazz Cat Ball

Animal Advocates Don Penguin Suits for Fundraiser

The spirit of Mardi Gras cast its spell at the 12th annual Jazz Cat Ball, the Greater Birmingham Humane Society fundraiser held at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom on Feb. 4.

The black-tie gala, one of the largest animal rescue fundraisers in the South, was a festive occasion, with a seated dinner, live music by Revel Radio, a casino, and live and online auctions.

This year’s honorary chairs were Jody and Betty Saiia. Both are lifelong animal lovers and advocates and have worked to advance the humane society’s mission to promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education advocacy and service. ❖

Arnar and Kara Thors and Joanna and Matt Fitzgerald

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Katie and John Phillips and Matt and Janet Lusco

Darla Davis and Keith Thomson

Walker and Anna Thuston

Sara Beauchamp and Lou Willie

Tommy and Courtney Williams

Pam Stanfield and Amy Madison

Jake and Joni Money

Keeley and Graham Tayloe

Mayor Frank Brocato presented his State of the City address during the Hoover Service Club’s Feb. 9 meeting at the Hoover Country Club.

He updated club members on the city’s achievements and future plans.

The club’s Act of Community Service Project was Hoover Helps, which creates and supports programs to help meet the basic needs of children in Hoover, especially regarding food insecurity.

Members were asked to give $20 to $25 food gift cards from ChickFil-A, McDonald’s and other restaurants to be given to high school students who may go without food, particularly on the weekends, according to club President Debbie Vandiver Rutherford.

Hoover Service Club

Members Hear From Mayor and Discuss Projects to Feed Children in Hoover

Irish Fling

Vanities Dance Club

Plans St. Patrick’s Day

Members of the Vanities Dance Club were updated on plans for the annual St. Patrick’s Day gala and elected new members and officers during the group’s Feb. 9 meeting.

Almost 60 members attended the meeting at the home of club President Carolyn Featheringil and were served savories and sweets provided by the officers and committee chairs.

Janie Trammell, chair of the annual ball, shared plans for “Shamrockin’ the Night Away,” to be held March 17 at Birmingham Country Club.

New members elected include Laura Finch, Katherine Galloway, Mary Virginia Gardner, Kate Gillespie, Catherine Loveman and Katherine Trammell.

Officers for 2023-2024 also were elected: Kay Littleton, president; Anne Rainer, vice president and ball chair, Karen Gillis, secretary; Anne Liles, treasurer; Carolyn Featheringill, parliamentarian; Mae Mae Kracke and Janice Lott, yearbook chairs; Katrina Logan and Christy

Festival hours: Monday-Saturday 10a-4p, Sunday 12-4p*

*Depending on weather conditions - please check the website, Facebook or Instagram pages for field conditions before your trip.

Debbie Rutherford, Helen Hoover Holmes, Frank Brocato and Jena Ingram

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Christy Beem and Kacy Wood

Susette Clark Walker, Crystal Bowels and Heather Pierce

Cater, membership chairs; and Sally Garner, nominating chair. ❖

Kim Allen, Vicki Nutter, Erinn Fain and Frances Brocato

Karli Piennette and Jamie Hinson

The Need for Homecare for Seniors Is Growing

One of the impacts of the COVID19 pandemic is that we have seen many of our healthcare and long-term care systems have been overwhelmed and under-staffed. Across the U.S., healthcare systems had only a limited supply of ventilators, pulse oximeters and intensive care units. Personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare and other essential workers was in short supply. The importance and value of care in the home, especially for older adults who are at risk due to declining physical health and social isolation, have come into focus.

Homecare, often referred to as personal care, helps older adults maintain healthy, active lifestyles for as long as possible in the comfort of their own homes. Today, homecare is seen to be a valuable solution to fill gaps created by traditional care models, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care. Homecare workers – also known as professional caregivers, personal care aides or direct care workers – who work for agencies receive professional training to enable them to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, eating, transportation, running errands, and light housework. Most importantly, these caregivers provide vital companionship and mental stimulation by engaging

their clients in conversation and other activities. Homecare workers serve as an additional set of “eyes and ears” for families, helping to ensure older adults’ safety by recognizing and alerting family members and health care professionals to potential signs of declining health.

Someone turning 65 today has nearly a 70 percent chance of needing long-term care and support, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. One out of five will need care for more than five years. The need for care increases with age. America’s new age dynamics show a surging need among older adults for the highest-quality care. If most get their preference, that care will happen primarily in their own homes. With aging comes an increase in chronic conditions, but with proper treatment, prevention and care, these conditions need not be inevitable as one grows old. Roughly six in 10 Americans aged 65 and up have at least one chronic condition, such as obesity, diabetes, or hypertension. About 40 percent have two or more. There is also a growing wave of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Already, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Absent a medical breakthrough, that could hit 14 million by 2050. According to the

Homecare Association of America (HCAOA), three quarters of people living with Alzheimer’s require assistance to handle the tasks of daily living.

Most older Americans want to age at home for as long as possible. However, just 59 percent believe they will be able to stay local either at home (46 percent) or elsewhere in their community (13 percent). Traditionally, older adults have relied on family members for help in dealing with the challenges of aging. This requires a safety net of a family caregiver living nearby. Most seniors don’t have that safety net. Many family caregivers are under severe stress –especially those in the “sandwich generation” who must balance the demands of raising children and caring for aging loved ones. The COVID-19 pandemic has only deepened that stress. By 2040, nearly 81 million people in the U.S. will be 65 years older, compared with 77 million under the age of 18. America will soon consist of more old citizens than young citizens. Should you be interested in learning more about the subject of elder care or need assistance for your loved one, email Always Best Care at jmancuso@abc-seniors. com or call us at 205-874-9730. We are available for you and your loved ones 24 hours a day!

ALWAYS BEST CARE FOR SENIORS NEWS

Always Best Care for Seniors in Mountain Brook is pleased to welcome Connie Gortney to our staff as a Recruiting Coordinator! Connie has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mississippi State University. She has over 25 years’ professional experience working in customer service and communication roles. Having spent many years taking care of an elderly family member, Connie has a passion for seniors. In her role as an Always Best Care Recruiting Coordinator, she looks for job candidates with a compassionate heart, as well as extensive professional healthcare experience. Connie knows from personal experience that providing quality care services takes a special person. She is constantly on the hunt for new employees and knows the qualifications needed for caregivers to succeed at Always Best Care.

She has been actively involved in various philanthropic programs. Connie has served as a volunteer at Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital, the Baby’s Place Children’s Home in Birmingham and Respite Care in Boca Raton, Florida.

Connie enjoys working for Always Best Care because she appreciates the company’s strong focus on providing excellent care services to families and their loved ones. She says, “Caregiving is important for our seniors, patients with disabilities, as well as the families of the patients.”

Connie lives a very active lifestyle. She enjoys nature, hiking, sailing, kayaking, and biking. She also loves spending time

with her big furry companion, Oliver.

We are excited Connie has joined our team! Our company is growing as we seek to help Seniors with their healthcare needs while living their golden years at home!

Caring.com, a national program recognizing service excellence in homecare, has presented Always Best Care in Mountain Brook with a 2023 Caring Super Star Award. To be considered for this industry honor, homecare agencies must meet a rigorous set of criteria based on consumer ratings and reviews published publicly on Caring. com. Caring Super Stars have earned the Caring Star service excellence award for three or more years. Of the estimated 451,000 homecare agencies in the U.S., only 305 agencies received this award.

Always Best Care is one of only four Alabama agencies and the only Mountain Brook-based agency to qualify for this prestigious award.

In addition to our accreditation by the Accreditation Commission of Healthcare (ACHC), Always Best Care is accredited by the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC). These certifications are recognition of the company’s commitment to quality service and care delivery. Always Best Care is the only homecare agency in the state of Alabama to receive accreditation by these two accreditation organizations.

For information about Always Best Care and their services, please call the company at 205-874-9730 or e-mail them at jmancuso@abc-seniors.com

Garden Art Party

Volunteer Luncheon Set the Stage for Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama’s Fundraiser in May

The Mountain Brook home of Miller Piggott was the setting for Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama’s Garden Art Party Volunteer Luncheon on Feb. 8.

The event marked the kickoff for the Garden Art Party on May 6, a major fundraiser that is being held this year for the first time since 2019, said Vance Holder, the organization’s community relations coordinator.

Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama supports low-income families of dementia patients care for their loved ones at home. Several types of help are available, such as incontinence products and monthly $300 scholarships for a patient to attend adult day care programs. ❖

Vickery-Warren

Rebekah Ray Vickery and Christopher Brett Warren were joined in matrimony on Nov. 19, 2022, at South Highland Presbyterian Church in Birmingham.

The Rev. Eric Thomas Warren, brother of the groom, and the Rev. Michael Cortland Gatliff of South Highland Presbyterian officiated the ceremony.

The bride was given in marriage by her father, Barry Edward Vickery. She wore the bridal gown worn by her grandmother in 1950 and her mother in 1977. The vintage satin gown featured a cathedral train and was redesigned by Leslie Salzmann, a bridal stylist who specializes in heirloom wedding gowns. She added the original Chantilly lace around the cathedral-length veil.

The matron of honor was the groom’s sister, Rachael Warren Jent

of Nashville. The maid of honor was Laura Peyton Vickery, sister of the bride, of Hoover.

Bridesmaids were Senzela Atmar, Brogan Howard Reviere, Sarah Ellen Thomas and Malyn D’Ann Winger, all of Nashville; Morgan Vice Bruce, Mary Margaret Abernathy Johnson and Mallory Morrison Means, all of Birmingham; Savannah Thomas Richey of Atlanta; and Madeline Chesnard Turner of Fairhope.

The flower girls were the bride’s cousin, Margot Mae Daniels of Atlanta, and the groom’s niece, Ella Rose Jent of Nashville.

The best man was the groom’s father, Kelton Lee Warren Jr. of Brentwood, Tennessee.

Groomsmen were Samuel Griffin Barnes, Lucas Aloysius Foley, Adam Russell Reviere, Christopher Dodson Manning, Lee Francis Noel Jr., Matthew Carlton Smith, Michael Thomas Wyler Young and John Asbury Bacon Harlin Jr., all of Nashville; David Benton Turnage of New Orleans; and Davis Edward Vickery of New Haven, Connecticut.

The ring bearer was the groom’s nephew, Josiah Kelton Warren of Nashville.

A reception was held at the Hoover Country Club, where the bride’s parents held their wedding reception.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Barry Edward Vickery of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kelton Lee Warren Jr. of Brentwood, Tennessee.

After a wedding trip to Turks and Caicos, the couple will be at home in Nashville. They plan an extended honeymoon trip to Greece in 2023.

Doug DeMedicis, Florence Hinkle, Lisa Heifner and Pam Arenberg

Taylor McElmurry and Christy Baynes

By June Mathews

On April 5, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order establishing the Civilian Conservation Corps, an environmental conservation program created to provide jobs for young men during the Great Depression.

To house this workforce of hundreds of thousands near the CCC’s projects, about 2,900 camps were established across the U.S. In 1942, CCC funding was diverted to the war effort, and the camps were shut down.

Meanwhile, E.A. McBride, superintendent of Talladega County Schools, had long harbored a dream of developing an outstanding summer camp for boys and girls. McBride –Mr. Mac, as kids called him – knew that classroom learning would give youngsters only part of what they needed to know to become successful adults. He also knew that summer camp would be an appealing and effective way of teaching those life lessons.

He found the place to turn that dream into reality in an abandoned CCC Camp tucked into the towering pines of the Talladega National Forest. Thus in 1948, Camp Mac was born.

“In the beginning there was really very little here. No ball field, no lakes, no food, no gym, not even a telephone line. And the only access to camp was an old dirt road,” said the late Bob Gene McBride, son of Camp Mac’s founder, in a 2008 video history of the camp.

There were, however, a few cabins, a dining hall, a recreation building and some general-purpose buildings and storerooms. Mr. Mac figured it was enough to get started and plenty to build on, so he got to work.

Among the first of the many improvements made to the camp was the installation of a swimming pool. In those days, however,

Camp Mac’s 75th Birthday Celebration

Camp Mac invites alumni and friends to become campers again at its 75th Celebration Day in 2023.

For more information, visit campmac. com, follow Camp Mac on Facebook and Instagram, or send an email to office@ campmac.com.

CAMP GUIDE

week then once a week you had to drain the pool, scrub it out like a bathtub, and fill it back up.”

Because of the need for a dependable source of water to fill the pool every week, Mr. Mac became interested in building a lake at the camp. He wound up building not only the Lower Lake but a couple of years later, the Upper Lake, as well.

Besides swimming, life at camp in the 1940s and ‘50s was filled with activities such as horseback riding, basketball, tennis, volleyball, riflery, archery, arts and crafts, and square dancing in the Rec Hall nearly every night.

During the 1960s, a badminton court and gymnasium were built, and more activities were added, including ping-pong, shuffleboard, water skiing, electronics, cheerleading and party nights with live bands.

‘Learn Stuff, Do Things, Have Fun’

Camp Mac Celebrates 75 Years of Life Among the Pines

the upkeep on a pool was more of an ordeal than it is today.

“There were very few swimming pools in the county at that time, and they didn’t have filter systems, so you had to fill the swimming pool up,” said Bob Gene McBride in his video history. “You chlorinated the water during the

Head’s Up!

ACADEMICS/ENRICHMENT

ADVENTure Camp at Advent Episcopal School

Over the years, Camp Mac continued to add activities and programs – and even discontinued a few – to keep up with the times. Nowadays, camp is much like those early days, but there are differences, too.

For example, while skiing, horseback riding, campouts and tetherball continue to be favorites, today’s campers participate in rappelling, pickleball, rock climbing, team roping and mountain biking, too. They also can plunge down a 160-foot-long waterslide and splash around in a water park with inflatables.

But for all the changes, the Camp Mac traditions and philosophy have remained the same as in 1948: Learn Stuff, Do Things, Have Fun, according to the camp’s website. And the number of alumni taking their children and even grandchildren to camp serves as strong testimony to the good memories made and life lessons learned at Camp Mac.

Current owner and Director Allen McBride represents the third generation of the McBride family to run the camp, so when he says he’s been at Camp Mac all his life, he means it.

“And every day has been different while still feeling the same,” he said. “When my grandfather founded the camp, there were not nearly as many campers nor nearly as many things to do. My father and I used to kid about those first campers having nothing more than two sticks and a rock.

“Now, 75 years later, the program has grown, the facility has grown, and the number of campers has grown, but the smiles and the laughter and the life-changing opportunities and experiences are still the same.”

Advent Episcopal School offers a variety of programs to engage, enrich and entertain students of all ages during summer break. PreK-4th grade students experience an engaging day camp format; 5th-10th grade students become Counselors-in-Training as they learn leadership skills while supporting the counselors and teachers of ADVENTure Camp.

Telephone: (205) 252-2535

Address: 2019 6th Ave. N., Birmingham

Email: summer@adventepiscopalschool.org

Website: adventurecampbham.org

Dates: June 5 - Aug 4 (excluding June 19 and the week of July 4)

Ages: Grades Pre-K through 10, rising

Alabama School of Fine Arts

Alabama School of Fine Arts Summer Programs

Make your summer count with a variety of camps at ASFA, including creative writing, video game design, Android app programming, drawing and printmaking. ASFA also offers 3-week intensives in pre-algebra or Algebra 1 for those looking to get ahead in math or simply brush up on their math skills. Camps are taught by ASFA’s expert faculty members.

Telephone: (205) 252-9241

Address: 1800 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham

Email: jlittle@asfaschool.org

Website: asfaschool.org

Dates: June 5-23

Ages: Grades 5-8

Summer at Altamont

Summer is the perfect time to try something new, dive deeper into special interests, finetune academic skills or earn course credit in a relaxed environment.

Address: The Altamont School, 4801 Altamont Rd., Birmingham

Email: summer@altamontschool.org

To register as an alum, go to campmac. com, click on About Camp Mac then Alumni on the drop-down menu. Continued

Website: altamontschool.org/academics/ altamont-summer-programs

Dates: May 30-July 14

Alabama Summer Camp for Boys

SUMMERS AT SOUTHERN

Summer Camp Reimagined For Boys in Rising 6th - 12th Grades

Are you looking for a summer experience unlike any other? Summers At Southern is a series of weeklong themed camps designed specifically with boys in mind. Our camp is 90% outdoors, with activities ranging from white-water rafting, catfishing, aviation,

Week One: Adventure June 18 – June 24, 2023

Activities include whitewater rafting, canoeing, paintball, aviation, firearms safety, ropes course, and more.

firearm safety education, kayaking, paintball, and much more! Choose from standard or advanced camps.

Summers At Southern camps are located in Camp Hill, Alabama and are hosted by Southern

Our Camps

Week Two: Survival June 25 – July 1, 2023

Activities include archery, land navigation, shelter building, paintball, overnight camping, kayaking, and fishing.

Preparatory Academy. The campgrounds are situated on 320-acres of land equipped with two fishing ponds, an indoor swimming pool, dining hall, air-conditioned dorms, an indoor rifle range, an outdoor rifle range, football field and 2 gymnasiums.

Week Three: Advanced Adventure July 9 – July 15, 2023

Week Four: The Challenge July 16- July 22, 2023

Your son will enjoy more advanced versions of the activities from Week One. Don’t worry, no prior experience is necessary for this camp.

Your son will be able to sharpen his survival skills this week, with activities including catching and cooking your own catfish, fire-building, overnight camping, kayaking, and more.

Highlands Summer Camp

Highlands summer camp offers challenging activities, talented teachers, and the same great variety of camps you’ve come to expect from Highlands School. Traditional day camp for kids in grades K through 6 combines fun activities with enrichment. Camps like Dino Camp, Lego Camp, and Play-ScribbleWrite Camp are geared solely toward 4K and 5K. For rising 7th and 11th graders, the Counselor-in-Training program teaches leadership skills. Throughout the summer program, kids continue to learn while having a good time!

Telephone: (205) 956-9731, Ext. 606

Address: Highlands School, 4901 Old Leeds Rd., Birmingham

Email: lcamp@highlandsschool.org

Website: highlandsschool.org

Grades K-8 (some for 4K and CIT for

Dates: June 5-July 28 (Closed the week of July 3-7 for Independence Day)

Summer @ Springs

Summer@Springs is a program of Indian Springs School, an independent, coeducational day and boarding school serving a vibrant community of 300 students in grades eight through 12. Summer@Springs courses are taught by the school’s award-winning faculty on its inspiring, 350-acre campus located off Interstate 65 near Pelham.

Telephone: (205)-988-3350

Address: Indian Springs School, 190 Woodward Dr., Indian Springs

Email: summer@indiansprings.org

Website: summeratsprings.org

Ages: Grades 8-12

Dates: June 5 - July 28 (15 courses)

ART/CRAFTS

ART & Soul Teaching Studio

Summer Art Camp

Each week features drawing instruction, art history, structured art lessons on canvas and paper, sketchbook time with a prompt, and a variety of art supplies. Topics covered include animals, landscapes, people/faces, the environment, and technology.

Telephone: 205-502-4133

Address: 807 Shades Crest Rd Birmingham

Email: artbyamyanderson@gmail.com

Website: artsoulbluffpark.com

Ages: 6-12, Teen camp ages 10-18

Dates: Weekly beginning June 5 - Aug. 3

ArtPlay Discovering the Visual Arts Camp B

ArtPlay’s award-winning visual arts camp offers classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts and more. Each day offers a new discovery, with

an art show at the end of camp.

Telephone: (205) 975-4769

Address: 1006 19th St. S., Birmingham

Website: alysstephens.org/connect/classes/ discovering-the-visual-arts-camp-b/

Ages: 7-12

Dates: July 16 - 20 M-F | 9:30 am - 3:00 pm

BIG Art Camp 2023

Led by experienced art teacher Jimmy McGowan, campers explore several forms of art, including drawing, painting on canvas, origami, and collage. All skill levels are welcome.

Telephone: (205) 879-1758

Address: 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Email: bhuff@dawsonchurch.org

Ages: Grades 1-5, completed

Dates: July 10-13

Samford Art Studio for Teens & Samford Bulldog Art Camp

At Art Studio for Teens students will plan their work, and create 2D and 3D projects in paint, pencil, clay, and glass. Students will be encouraged to develop their own styles, and to experiment with different methods to hone their art skills.At Bulldog Art Camp students will work with paint, graphite, clay, paper, and more to make works of art. We will learn about the visual components of color, form, line, shape, space, texture, and value while we experiment with different mediums.

Telephone: (205) 726-2739

Address: Samford University Academy of the Arts, Homewood

Email: academyofthearts@samford.edu

Website: samford.edu

Art Studio for Teens: Grade 6-8

Bulldog Art Camp: Grade 1-5

Dates: Art Studio for Teens: June 19-23 (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.)

Bulldog Art Camp: Session I: June 26-30 (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.);Session II: July 17-21 (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.)

HAPPY CAMPERS

ART & Soul Teaching Studio

Summer at Springs

Space One Eleven Summer Art Camps

Rising 2nd through 5th graders paint, draw, and sculpt to create works of art influenced by artists from Alabama in “I’m an Alabama Artist, Too!”. Rising 6th through 12th graders can select from a variety of camps in the medium of their choice including drawing, sewing and fashion, printmaking, digital art, architecture, portfolio development, and more! These camps give young artists ample time to dive into their projects, make friends, and create finished pieces of work. All camps are taught by practicing artists in Space One Eleven’s professional art studios.

Telephone: (205) 328-0553, Ext. 124

Address: 2409 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham

Email: info@spaceoneeleven.org

Website: spaceoneeleven.org

Ages: Grades 2-12

Dates: June 5-July 28

The Art House

Meagan Robichaux, owner and instructor, incorporates a modern twist to art history and classical techniques into her lessons while encouraging her students to have fun. Art lessons and art parties are available for ages toddler to adult. Camps for Summer 2023 include Petite Picasso for age 5 to rising 2nd grade; Mini Masters for rising 3rd to 7th grade, Fashion + Art Camp for rising 2nd grade & up, and Princess Art Camp for ages 4 & up.

Telephone: (334) 507-3972

Email: meagan@theARThousebhm.com

Website: theARThousebhm.com

Dates: May 31-Aug. 5

COOKING/FOOD

Samford Cooking Camp for Teens

Cook alongside registered dietitian nutritionists and learn how to build delicious and nutritious plates for meals and snacks with the goal of developing a positive relationship with food and cooking. Space is available for 16 students.

Telephone: (205) 726-4672

Address: Samford University College of Health Sciences, 800 Lakeshore Drive, Homewood

E-mail: cdarling@samford.edu

Website: samford.edu

Ages: 11 to 16 years old

Dates: June 26-30

Camp Grow at The Center for Food Education

Camp Grow will provide an educational and interactive learning opportunity for students who are curious about food, farming and the culinary arts. Campers will explore the natural and culinary worlds through inquiry, experimentation, and hands-on activities at The Center for Food Education.

Teens

Address: 701 25th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Website: jvtf.org/center-for-food-education/ camps/

Ages: All camps are ages 3rd - 5th grade except for “Community, Food, and You,” which is 6th - 8th grade

Dates: March 27th- April 31st: Plant Power (3rd-5th grade), June 5-9: Plant to Plate (3rd-5th grade), June 12-16: Explore & Restore (3rd-5th grade), June 26-30: Green Engineers (3rd-5th grade), July 10th-14th: Kitchen Champs (3rd-5th grade), July 17th-28th: Community, Food, and You (6th-8th grade)

DANCE

MAY 30-AUGUST 4, 2023

ALL SKILL LEVELS

FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE

Alabama Ballet

With its state-of-the-art studios and superb instructors, the Alabama Ballet seeks to promote and foster the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high-quality performances, dance education and community outreach.

Telephone: (205) 322-4300

Address: 2726 1st Ave. S., Birmingham

Email: nataliehunt@alabamaballet.org

Website: alabamaballet.org

Ages: Junior Camp (ages 8-12, one two-week session); Tutus & Tiaras (ages 4-7, two oneweek sessions with option for one or both weeks)

Dates: July 17-28

The Dance Foundation Camps for ages 4 and up include Once Upon a Fairytale for 4K and 5K, Once Upon a Ballet for entering Grades 1-3, Adventures in Enchanted Lands for entering Grades 1-3, Dance Exploration for entering Grades 3-6, and Dance Workshop for entering Grades 6-12. Weekly classes for ages 1 to adult are also available. The Dance Foundation has been a gathering place for learning through dance for more than 40 years.

Telephone: (205) 870-0073

Address: 1715 27th Court S., Homewood

Email: shellie@thedancefoundation.org

Website: thedancefoundation.org

Dates: June 5-August 5

Dawson Ballet School

This camp is suited for all skill levels, whether your dancer is a first-time ballerina or has experience. Snacks will be provided, and craft time gives those little feet time to rest. Parents will enjoy a recital at the end of the week to see what their little ballerinas have learned in camp.

Telephone: (205) 879-1758

Address: 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Email: slong@dawsonchurch.org

Ages: 4 years to Grade 2, completed

Dates: June 19-23

THEME CAMPS

Ages 7-12

PLAY MAKING

Ages 4-6

SUMMER SPROUTS

Ages 7-8

BROADWAY BOOTCAMP

Ages 9-17

BLAST CAMPS

Ages 9-14

Samford Cooking Camp for

DRAMA

Acting Out! Academy

Acting Out is Alabama’s premiere on-camera acting academy. They offer two great camps in the summer. Movie Camp, where students film a short film during the week and premiere it at a red carpet event for friends and family and our Summer Film Acting Academy. The Summer Film academy is a week-long intensive training program that host industry professionals as teachers from all over the country. Students take classes in on-camera technique, commercial acting, stunts, voice over, dialects and much more. The week ends with a showcase for talent agents, managers and casting directors

Telephone: (818) 231-4065

Address: 2531 Rocky Ridge Rd., Suite 125, Vestavia

Email: meg@actingoutacademy.com

Website: actingoutacademy.com

Dates: Summer Film Acting Academy: June 19th - 23rd at VHCS Freshman Campus, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $675 Early Bird ($750 late registration)

Movie Camps : 4 different weeks 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Friday ends at noon) $375 June 3rd - 9th, June 26th - 30th, July 10th - 14th, July 24th - 28th

Homewood Theatre Summer Camp

This summer theatre camp gives campers (rising 2nd graders through rising 12th graders) an opportunity to experience a working theatre environment resulting in performances after the final days of camp. Over the two-week camp, participants will put together a full production and perform the finished product when camp concludes. Campers will be introduced to all the “moving parts” that are necessary to get a theatrical production on stage.

Telephone: (205) 873-1816

Address: 1831 28th Avenue South, Suite 160, Homewood

Email: kyle@homewoodtheatre.com

Website: homewoodtheatre.com

Dates: June 12-23 (performances June 24-25)

Red Mountain Theatre

RMT Summer Camps give kids an outlet to use their creativity in dramatic ways, at all ages and skill levels. Opportunities include Play Making sessions for ages 4 to 6; Summer Sprouts sessions for ages 7-8; Theme Camps for ages 7-12; and Blast Camps for ages 9-14. A typical day includes training in singing, dancing, and acting, along with lots of fun. Most camps end in a short performance for family and friends. For students aged 9-18, RMT offers intensive musical theatre camps and college prep. Pricing starts at $180 for half-day camps and $300 for full day camps; financial aid is available for those who qualify.

Telephone: (205) 324-2424

Address: 1600 3rd Avenue South Birmingham

Email: education@redmountaintheatre.org

Website: redmountaintheatre.org

Ages: 4-18

Dates: May 30-August 4

Virginia Samford Theatre’s Camp VST

This summer theatre camp gives young performers the opportunity to explore all aspects of working in live theatre. Camp VST is open to beginner and intermediate theatre students aged 7-18 and will explore dance, voice, acting, playwriting, and more. Our new STARS Summer Studio will engage more advanced students aged 12 -18 in workshop-style masterclasses to take their theatre knowledge to the next level.

Telephone: (205) 251-1228

Address: 1116 26th St. S., Birmingham

Email: stars@virginiasamfordtheatre.org

Website: virginiasamfordtheatre.org

Dates: Session 1: June 5-19; Session 2: June 12-16

LANGUAGE/WRITING

Ada Long Creative Writing Workshop

This camp is for high school students interested in creative writing. With the guidance of nationally recognized authors, they will draft, edit and publish their work while exploring Birmingham’s rich culture and history.

Telephone: (205) 934-8573

Address: 1190 10th Ave. S., Birmingham

Email: tmharris@uab.edu

Website: uab.edu/cas/english/news-events/adalong-workshop

Ages: Grades 9-12 (rising)

Dates: June 12-June 30

The Dance Foundation Alabama Ballet

MUSIC

Adventures in Music Camp at Samford

The Academy of the Arts will offer two Adventures in Music Piano Camps this summer. Adventures in Music is a fun and educational week-long day camp open to students interested in continuing their studies in piano. Activities include classes in music literature, theory, and ensemble, four private 30-minute lessons, practice time, and solo and ensemble recitals on the final day of camp. Violin Camp is a week-long camp for violin students to learn and perform music with other musicians. Campers will have daily private lessons, chamber ensemble, and full group rehearsals each day, as well as classes in theory and music literature, culminating in a final concert on the last day of camp.

Telephone: (205) 726-2739

Address: Samford University Academy of the Arts, Homewood

Email: academycamps@samford.edu.

Website: samford.edu/academy-of-the-arts/

Ages: Music Piano Camp: Grades 1-12 Violin Camp: Grades 3-8

Dates: Music Piano Camp: Session I: June 12-16, 2023 (8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

Session II: July 10-14, 2023 (8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

Violin Camp: July 24-28, 2023 (8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

Dawson Music Academy Summer Camp

Preschool and elementary campers enjoy a week of hands-on musical fun. Elementary campers explore the instrument of their choice (guitar, piano, percussion, ukulele, violin or voice) in small group instrument sessions with 6-10 campers who possess similar musical skills.

Telephone: (205) 871-7324

Address: 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Email: dma@dawsonchurch.org

Website: dawsonmusicacademy.org

Ages: Grades 4K-5, completed

Dates: July 17-21

Mason Music

Mason Music’s 2023 summer camps include Songs of the Sea Preschool Music Camp for ages 3-5; Guitar Camp for Beginners for ages 10-15; Ukulele Camp for Beginners for ages (6-10); Vocal Performance Camp for Beginners for ages 10-15; Rock Band Camp: Performance Edition for ages 10-18; and Rock Band Camp: Recording Edition for ages 10-18. Camps offered vary by location.

Address: 761 Shades Mountain Plaza, Hoover, (205) 582-2238; 2903 Cahaba Rd., Mountain Brook, (205) 874-9596; 3187 Cahaba Heights Rd., Vestavia Hills, (205) 908-7059; 5406 Hwy. 280 E, Suite B103, North Shelby, (205) 874-9800

Email: programs@masonmusic.com

Website: masonmusic.com/music-camps/

Ages: 3-18

Dates: May 30-August 4

SCIENCE/NATURE/TECHNOLOGY

Aldridge Gardens

Everything from American Girl Doll Camp, STEAM-All Things Creative, as well as STEAMEngineering Design Process Contraptions & ART in the Garden is on the schedule for Summer Camp at Aldridge Gardens! Kids will enjoy art, building things, crafts, game, and more, not to mention feeding the ducks, turtles and fish!

Telephone: (205) 739-6555

Address: 3530 Lorna Rd., Hoover

Email: debbie.mcdonald@hooveralabama.gov

Website: aldridgegardens.com

Ages: Grades 5K-3, completed

Dates: June 5-June 30, one-week camps

ASMS STEM Leadership Academy

The Alabama School of Math and Science offers its STEM Leadership Academy Summer Camp for campers throughout the state interested in taking advanced, engaging, interactive, and hands-on STEM-based classes! From Underwater Robotics, 2D Design, Cyber defenders, and Mini Medical School, to Rocketry and Robotics, this camp offers a wide array of courses!

Telephone: 251-441-2100

Address: 1255 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36604

Email: Admissions@asms.net

Website: asms.net

Ages: Rising 7th, 8th, and 9th graders

Dates: June 5-9 and June 12-16

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Design Camp

Barber Design Camp is a program offering rising 4th, 5th, and 6th graders an opportunity to learn how sustainability, safety and STEAM principles are used in the Barber Motorsports Park design. This week long program includes hands-on as well as classroom learning, including designing and creating your own motorsports park model.

Telephone: (205) 702-8729

Address: 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy, Birmingham

Email: Education@BarberMuseum.org

Website: barbermuseum.org/facility/designcamp/

Ages: Rising 4th, 5th and 6th graders

Dates: June 12-16

Birmingham Zoo Camp

Going to camp at the Birmingham Zoo is an unforgettable educational experience that encourages active learning through games, Mason Music

Red Mountain Theatre

age-appropriate, hands-on science, animal encounters, and nature play. Through rich in STEM-based explorations, these camps engage the natural curiosity of a child and allow opportunities to practice critical emerging science skills. New this year: Zoo Rangers, Real World Science, and Zoo Leaders camps for students completing Kindergarten through twelfth grade.

Telephone: (205) 397-3877

Address: 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham

Email: education@birminghamzoo.com

Website: birminghamzoo.com/education/ zoocamps/

Ages: Grades K-12

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

BBG’s programs actively promote your child’s natural sense of creativity and joy of discovery with fun learning experiences in the unmatched setting of the Gardens. This summer, BBG offers

exciting opportunities to grow and discover through arts, crafts, gardening, STEAM, and more, all while forming new friendships. Camp offerings include: Summer Garden Chefs, Young Artists in the Gardens, and Super STEAM Gardeners.

Telephone: 205-414-3950

Address: 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham

Email: ehardy@bbgardens.org

Website: bbgardens.org/summercamps

Ages: 4 to 12

Dates: May 30–July 28, 2023

Fresh Air Family’s Vulcan Gross Out Camp

This is an award-winning, hands-on field biology science camp where kids have an opportunity to explore the nature around them in a safe environment.

Telephone: (205) 540-6642

Address: Vulcan Park and Museum, McCallum Park in Vestavia

Email: programs@FreshAirFamily.org

Website: freshairfamily.org/gross-out-camps

Ages: Grades 1-4, rising

Dates: May 30-July 28 (weeklong sessions)

McWane Science Center

Bring your curiosity and sense of wonder for hands-on, minds-on, science, learning, and fun to McWane Science Center this summer. Campers will dive into ocean learning, journey back in time to discover dinosaurs, build robots, create some chemistry, build the next great invention and more.

Telephone: (205) 714-8351

Address: 200 19th St. N., Birmingham

Email: pchowning@mcwane.org (for questions)

Website: mcwane.org

Ages: 4-13

SPECIAL NEEDS

Camp WheezeAway

Kids suffering from moderate to severe asthma can apply for this FREE summer camp where they can experience all the fun of summer camp while learning confidence-building skills in asthma management from medical professionals.

Telephone: (334) 799-3449

Address: Camp held at YMCA Camp Chandler on Lake Jordan, Wetumpka

Email: brendabasnight@yahoo.com

Website: ymcamontgomery.org

Ages: 8-12

Dates: May 26-June 2, 2023

The Exceptional Foundation

Summer Camp

The Exceptional Foundation offers an eightweek summer camp for school-age individuals with special needs. Activities include art, music,

dance, cooking, karate, adaptive P.E., frequent swimming, field trips, and more. Admission interview required.

Telephone: (205) 870-0776

Address: 1616 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Email: mbarcroft@exceptionalfoundation.org

Website: exceptionalfoundation.org/youthparticipants

Ages: 5 and up

Dates: June 5-July 28

SPORTS CAMPS

Birmingham United Soccer Association

Summer Camps

BUSA’s goal is to teach players to empower, enrich and excel within the community and to use the life skills learned through soccer to leave the world a better place. Summer offerings include ACL Prevention, Finishing &

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Zoo

The Exceptional Foundation

Goalkeeping Camp, Technical Camp, Pre-Tryout Camp, ECNL Combine and more.

Ages: 5-17

Dates: May 9 - August 4

Website: birminghamunited.com/camps_clinics/ camps/

Telephone: (205) 977-9038

Address: 3578 East St., Birmingham (Camp locations vary)

Briarwood Ambassador Soccer Camp, A Ministry of Quest Recreation

A great soccer camp for all levels of play.

Telephone: (205) 776-5237

Address: 6255 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham

Email: Soccer@Briarwood.org

Website: Briarwoodsoccer.com

Ages: Boys and Girls Ages 7-14

Dates: June 12-16, 8:30am-noon

Cheer Camp, A Ministry of Quest

Recreation

Have the time of your life cheering with friends this summer.

Telephone: (205) 776-5237

Address: 2200 Briarwood Way, Birmingham

Email: Quest@Briarwood.org

Website: QuestRecreation.org

Ages: Rising K5-4th grade girls

Dates: June 12-16, 9 a.m. - noon

Dawson Basketball Camps I & II

Dawson’s Recreation Ministry invites children of all skill levels in Grades 1-5, completed, to kick off their summer with a half-day basketball camp. No experience required.

Telephone: (205) 879-1758

Address: 1114 Oxmoor Rd., Homewood

Email: bhuff@dawsonchurch.org

Website: dawsonchurch.org

Ages: Grades 1-5, completed

Dates: Camp I – June 19-22; Camp II – July 24-27

Dunn Baseball Academy

Join University of Alabama Birmingham Head Baseball Coach, Casey Dunn, and the UAB Baseball Coaching Staff as they host baseball camps to improve your skills. Events will take place at Jerry D. Young Memorial Field at the University of Alabama Birmingham in Birmingham, Alabama.

Address: Jerry D. Young Memorial Field: 1720 University Blvd, Birmingham

Website: dunnbaseballacademy.com

Ages: Grades K-12

Dates: Youth Camps: UAB-June 12-15 | Gardendale-June 26-29 | UAB-July 10-13 | Vestavia Hills-July 17-20; Middle School Camps: June 12-14 and July 10-12

Camp Cosby

Rock Climbing Summer Camps at High Point Climbing & Fitness

This camp will introduce kids to the sport of rock climbing. Enthusiastic coaches will support your athlete in learning the basics of climbing as they gain confidence in themselves.

Telephone: (205) 981-9190

Address: 4766 Highway 280, Birmingham

Email: jaid.webb@highpointclimbing.com

Website: highpointclimbing.com/birmingham

Ages: 5-14

Dates: Memorial Day week through the second full week of August

Rocking S Farm Riding Camps

Rocking S Farm offers camp for all kids ages 5 and older from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. each day.

Campers will have fun riding, grooming, feeding, tacking, cleaning stalls, playing games, crafts and meeting new friends.

Ages: 5 and up

Dates: June 5-9

Website: rockingsfarmriding.com/camps

Telephone: (205) 441-9490

Address: 4141 Highway 93 North, Helena

IJTA Summer Camp 2023

Whether you’re learning how to play this lifelong sport for the first time, or want to continue developing your skills, have some fun in the sun and on the court at Inverness Junior Tennis Academy this summer! All levels are welcome.

Telephone: (205) 991-8612

Address: Inverness Country Club

Email: Joey@diamondclubs.com

Website: invernessjuniortennisacademy. com (Sign Up Online under the “2023 Summer Tennis Camps” Tab)

Ages: 5-12

Dates: Camp 1: June 5-8; Camp 2: June 26-29; Camp 3: July 10-13; Camp 4: July 24-27

Mike Getman Soccer Camp

Over 30 years of conducting soccer camps in the Birmingham area. This camp offers programs for all ages and levels of ability. Camper-to-staff ratio approx. 7 to 1.

Telephone: (205) 216-3883

Email: info@mikegetmansoccercamp.com

Website: MikeGetmanSoccerCamp.com

Ages: 5 and up, Boys and Girls

Dates: June 5-9, June 12-16, June 19-23, July 10-14, July 24-28

Samford University’s Bucky McMillan Basketball Camps

The Bucky McMillan Basketball Camp’s goal is to see every camper improve fundamentals of the game: dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding, and defense, while also learning the importance of sportsmanship and how to play as a team. Every camper will leave the gym with a greater love for the game of basketball.

Telephone: (205) 538-8493

Address: Pete Hanna Center, Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Dr., Homewood

Email: buckyballsu@gmail.com

Website: buckymcmillanbasketballcamp.com

205-502-4133

Ages: Boys, 5-14

Dates: Camp 1: May 30-June 2; Camp 2: June 12-15; Camp 3: June 26-29; Camp 4: July 17-20

Samford University Carley Kuhns Basketball Camps

These camps are an excellent opportunity for girls in the community to learn from Samford’s women’s basketball coaches and players. The goal is to offer a fun experience that will help campers learn and grow in their basketball skills.

Address: Pete Hanna Center, Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Dr., Homewood

Email: carleykuhnsbasketballcamps@gmail.com

Website: carleykuhnsbasketballcamps.com

Dates: June 19-22 (Fundamental Day Camp, Week 1, Grades 1-8); June 18-11 (Team Camp, Grades 7-12); June 25th (Elite Camp); July 31- Aug. 3 (Fundamental Day Camp, Week 2, Grades 1-8)

Samford University Tony David Baseball Camps (day and residential)

Ages: Grades K-12

Dates: July 10-22

Vestavia Hills Soccer Club

The VHSC will offers soccer camp opportunities all year. This summer, the club will offer camps for all levels of players, boys and girls.

Telephone: (205) 978-0182

Address: 1973 Merryvale Rd., Vestavia Hills

Email: info@vestaviasoccer.com

Website: vestaviasoccer.com/camps

Dates & Ages: Pre-Tryout Camp – May 8-10 (Ages 8-19); Half Day Camp 1 – June 12-16 (Ages 5-12); Half Day; Camp 2 – July 24-28 (Ages 5-12); Goal-Keeper/Striker Camp – July 28-30 (Ages 10-18)

TRADITIONAL CAMPS

Camp Briarwood Overnight Camps

Camp Briarwood is a ministry of Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Camp is held in Wetumpka at YMCA Camp Chandler. Each session offers activities including canoeing, sailing, skiing, riflery, archery, arts and crafts, horseback riding and a high ropes course.

Telephone: (205) 776-5237

Address: Briarwood Presbyterian Church, 2200 Briarwood Way, Birmingham

Email: Quest@briarwood.org

Website: campbriarwood.org

Ages: Rising Grades 3-10

Dates: June 26-July 1, June 28-July 1, July 10-15, July 17-22

Camp Juliette Low (Residential)

Through outdoor living, campers get to experience nature, gain self-confidence, and learn leadership skills. Campers live in platform tents and get to take part in a variety of activities, including archery, canoeing, horseback riding and rock climbing. Campers can register for Mini-Camp, a one-week session, a two-week session, or a mix.

Telephone: (770) 428-1062

Address: Cloudland, GA

Email: info@cjl.org

Website: cjl.org

Ages: Campers - 8-15; Counselors-in-Training – 16-17

Dates: June 4-July 30

Camp Merri-Mac (Residential)

Camp Merri-Mac is a girls’ Christian summer camp located high in the mountains of Western North Carolina, providing a summer of growth through friends and adventure.

Telephone: (828) 669-8766

Address: Black Mountain, NC

Email: mail@merri-mac.com

Website: merri-mac.com

Ages: Grades 1-11

Dates: June 5-August 10 (7 sessions)

This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

GROSS OUT CAMPS

If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Thank you for your prompt attention.

To: Barber Motorsports From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646

These age-appropriate baseball camps maximize the camp experience so campers enjoy the game and become better players. Sessions led by the Samford baseball staff, current and former Samford players, as well as other college players, college coaches and high school coaches.

Address: Samford University

Website: subaseballcamps.com

Ages: Grades K-12

Dates: Youth Camps (Grades K-7) – June 12-15, June 26-29, July 10-13 and July 17-20; Middle School Advanced Camp (Grades 6-8) –May 30-June 1; Elite Camp (Grades 9-12) – July 24-25

Samford University Volleyball Camps (day and residential)

Samford coaches, staff and players, will help campers train, compete and improve in individual skill development, offensive and defensive systems and knowledge of the game. Campers will get an edge on the competition and have fun with the Samford Volleyball team.

Address: Samford University

Website: subulldogvolleyballcamps.com

Camp Nakanawa (Residential)

This private summer camp for girls is located on the Cumberland Plateau in Crossville, Tennessee. It offers a wide variety of activities designed to develop skills, make lasting friendships and gain confidence.

Telephone: (931) 277-3711

Address: Crossville, TN

Email: campnak@campnakanawa.org

Website: campnakanawa.com

Ages: 8-17, girls

Dates: June 18 - July 29 (two- and four-week sessions)

Summer Camp Experiences at Sumatanga

Campers enjoy age-level activities that include swimming, hiking, creek studies, canoeing and archery. They can participate in spiritual formation through creative worship,

intentional fellowship and small group discussion. Sumatanga offers Day Camp, fivenight Elementary Camp, Mid-High Camp and Senior High Camp experiences.

Telephone: (256)-538-9860

Address: 3616 Sumatanga Rd., Gallant

Email: summerdirector@sumatanga.org

Website: sumatanga.org

Ages: Rising 1st through 12th graders, rising

Dates: June 5th - July 28th

Summers At Southern (Residential)

Summers At Southern in Camp Hill, AL, is an overnight camp for boys in rising 6th-12th grades. Less than 2 hours southeast of Birmingham, Summers at Southern features whitewater rafting, aviation, firearms safety education, catfishing, paintball, and more!

Hosted by Southern Preparatory Academy.

Phone: (256) 307-7348 or (256) 790-9202

Address: 174 Ward Circle, Camp Hill, AL 36850

Email: admissions@southernprepacademy.org

Website: summersatsouthern.org

Grades: Rising 6th-12th (boys)

Dates: June 18-June 24; June 25-July 1; July 9-July 15; July 16-July 22 (week long sessions or bundle and save)

Camp Timberlake (Residential)

A residential boys’ Christian summer camp located in the mountains of Western North Carolina provides for a summer of growth through friends and adventure.

Telephone: (828) 669-8766

Address: Black Mountain, NC

Email: email@camptimberlake.com

Website: camptimberlake.com

Ages: 6-16

Dates: June 5-August 10

CAMPS

WEEKLY CLASSES

JUNE

Moving

Summers at Southern

Camp Walkabout at The Baylor School (Residential)

Walkabout summer campers will kayak, canoe and paddleboard through the Tennessee River Gorge, hike to remote waterfalls and swimming holes, rock climb on the world-renowned sandstone known as the Tennessee Wall, head underground to explore the vast network of local caves, sleep under the southern stars and experience exhilaration they can’t find anywhere else.

Telephone: (423) 757-2515

Address: Chattanooga, TN

Email: badams@baylorschool.org

Website: baylorschool.org

Ages: Ages 8-16

Dates: June 5-July 21 (three sessions)

Camp Winnataska (Residential)

For over 100 years, Camp Winnataska has been inspiring campers to become like “knights in the days of old.” With a reputation for Christian

camping at its best, Winnataska beckons a new generation of campers to come take part in unique traditions, grow in their faith, cultivate friendships and experience new high-adventure programming.

Telephone: (205) 640-6741

Address: 260 Winnataska Dr., Pell City

Email: info@winnataska.org

Website: winnataska.org

Ages: K-9, completed

Dates: May 31-July 29 (8 sessions)

Camp Woodmont (Residential)

Camp Woodmont on Lookout Mtn. in northwest Georgia, is an overnight camp for boys and girls, ages 6 to 14. Just 2 hours north of Birmingham, Camp Woodmont features horseback riding, high-ropes/climbing, sports, dance, crafts, canoeing, archery, and more!

Telephone: (423) 472-6070

Address: Cloudland, GA

Entering 5K-3rd Grade

All Camps start June 5th and each lasts 1 week. 9a.m. – Noon.

All teachers are Certified Alabama Educators.

Complete summer camp descriptions, details and fees are available at aldridgegardens.com.

BASEBALL

TONY DAVID BASEBALL CAMPS 2023

YOUTH BASEBALL CAMPS

June 12-15, June 26-29, July 10-13 and July 17-20

Grades entering K-7, $200, check in from 8:30-9:00 a.m., camp from 9 a.m.-noon

All youth camps are from 9:00 to 12:00 each day and from Monday through Thursday.

The cost of each camp is $200.00 and includes $5.00 towards the “Snack Bank” for the week during camp breaks, a Samford Water Bottle, and camp t-shirt. Instruction: Campers will be filmed hitting & have their swing analyzed. The camp will cover fundamentals of throwing, hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running.

Groups: Campers divided by age into small groups, keeping the coach to player ratio low. They will have the opportunity to be placed with friends at camp. • Games: on days 2, 3 and 4 the campers will participate in scrimmage games. The games will include age & ability specific instruction from staff • Weather Issues: Our State-of-the-Art Indoor hitting facility will be used to battle both heat and precipitation this summer.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ADVANCED CAMP

May 30-June 1, 6th to 8th graders, $200, check in begins at 8:15 on May 30, camp from 9 a.m. - Noon

The camp is designed for campers at a higher level than the youth camps with a more advanced and technical level of instruction for the players. Each player will receive detailed instruction on hitting, hitting for power, fielding, and throwing. Individual defensive instruction at each position will also be provided for each. Every player will have their swing filmed and analyzed. The camp will also focus on leading off and pick plays as this age group transitions from the youth baseball world. Players will be divided into separate groups by age. We will play scrimmage games on the full field at Samford. The Samford coaches will coach the teams in the games and provide instruction. There are no meals involved with the camp. Each camper will receive a camp Tshirt as well as Camp Water Bottle. Limited number of Participants.

HIGH SCHOOL ELITE CAMP

July 24-25

• Entering 9th graders through recent 2023 graduates

Day 1 (24th) - check in begins at 12:30, camp from 1 - 7 p.m., Day 2 (25th) - 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Email: chloe@campwoodmont.com

Website: campwoodmont.com

Ages: 6-14 (Boys and girls)

Dates: May 28-July 28 (One- or two-week sessions)

YMCA Camp Cosby (Residential)

Independence, joy, excitement and life-long friendships are what you’ll find at YMCA Camp

Cosby. Situated on 135 acres on the shores of beautiful Lake Logan Martin, this weeklong sleepaway camp offers the perfect camp atmosphere.

Telephone: (256) 268-2007

Address: 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014

Email: cosby@ymcabham.org

Website: campcosby.ymcabham.org

Ages: 6-16

Dates: June 4th - July 28th

VARIETY/SPECIALTY CAMPS

Camp Briarwood Day Camp

Campers travel from Briarwood Presbyterian Church to Camp Kanawahala in Chelsea every day for hiking, swimming, arts and crafts, canoeing and more. Bible stories and songs help children grow in their relationships with each other and God. Lunch and snacks are provided each day.

Telephone: (205) 776-5237

Address: Briarwood Presbyterian Church, 2200 Briarwood Way, Birmingham

Email: Quest@briarwood.org

Website: campbriarwood.org

Ages: Rising grades 1-3

Dates: June 19-23

Camp Dawson Day Camp

Day camps are held at the beautiful, wooded Camp Dawson near Calera, just the place for a summer adventure. Each morning, campers will meet at the Family Recreation Center on Dawson’s campus and travel by bus to camp. A variety of activities with something sure to satisfy every camper, including archery, swimming, BB guns, recreation, crafts, high ropes course and rock wall climbing.

Telephone: (205) 879-1758

Email: bhuff@dawsonchurch.org

Website: dawsonchurch.org

Ages: Grades 1-5, completed

Dates: Camp I – June 12-15; Camp II – June 26-June 30

Camp Fletcher Summer Day Camp

Camp Fletcher is more than just a summer camp offering a broad range of outdoor challenges and activities in a 300-acre woodland preserve. It’s an experience that young people, from literally all walks of life, remember. In its Summer Day Camp program, young people ages 515 enjoy a broad range of experiences and challenges, making friends and spending time in The Great Outdoors — all in a safe and secure environment.

Telephone: (205) 584-6033

Address: 5150 Fletcher Rd., Bessemer

Email: Camp.Fletcher@BridgeWaysAL.org

Website: bridgewaysal.org

Ages: 5 – 15 year olds

Email: administrator@campstraightstreet.com

Telephone: (205) 978-6000

Address: 2281 Old Tyler Rd., Hoover

Kidcam Camp @ Oak Mountain

Kidcam offers 10 weeks of summer fun with all the best activities offered at Oak Mountain State Park. Purchase only the weeks you need and build your summer around you!

Telephone: (877) 454-3226

Address: 200 Terrace Dr., Pelham

Email: rocky@kidcamcamps.com

Website: kidcamcamps.com

Ages: 5 to 13

Dates: May 30-August 4

Levite Jewish Community Center’s Camp LJCC

A tradition since 1952, the LJCC’s summer camps are filled with opportunities for children to play, explore and experience all that camp has to offer. Program includes indoor and outdoor activities, singing, dancing, sports, swimming, fields trips and much more.

Telephone: (205) 510-9028

Address: 3960 Montclair Rd., Birmingham

Email: gillianm@bhamjcc.org

Website: bhamjcc.org

Ages: Grades K-8, rising

Dates: June 5- August 11

Conservatory of the Arts Camps at Vestavia Hills Methodist Church - VHMC For campers who prefer to take a more “artsy” approach to summer, the Conservatory of the Arts at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church might be just the ticket. Camp sessions will feature Art Workshop, Theatre Camp, Creative Writing, Life Skills and more.

Telephone: (205) 769-0141

Address: 2061 Kentucky Ave., Vestavia Hills

Email: coa@vhumc.org

Website: coa.mymusicstaff.com

VHMC’s Summer Days

There’s something for everybody – including mad scientists, Lego/Barbie/American Girl Doll lovers, Game Players, Wet- N-Wild -Get Wet week, PE Escape Rooms, and Pay it Forward/ Serve Camp – at Vestavia Hills Methodist Church’s Summer Days camps. Each week is a different theme! Keep your kids busy for part or all of the summer or with a variety of weeklong adventures. Camp sessions are from 9 a.m.1p.m., with lunch and extended care options available (7am-5:30). Many weeks include exciting field trips.

Address: 2061 Kentucky Ave., Vestavia Hills

Email: SummerDays@vhmc.org

Website: vhmc.org

YMCA Summer Day Camp

YMCA camp day is built on an open programming model where campers will experience daily opportunities to select which games, crafts, or activities they participate in. Amidst the regular open programming periods, there will be organized events and large group games. The YMCA summer day camp helps kids gain self-confidence, build character, and focuses on the whole child in spirit, mind, and body.

Dates: May 30-August 4

• $295

This instructional camp will be taught at a college level to help each individual player get better and provide tools and drills for beyond the camp. The Samford Coaching Staff will be joined by college coaches from other programs to coach and evaluate the players. Addition of Trackman and video board will greatly enhance the camp experience.Players will be placed on teams by position and will participate in scrimmage games as well. All swings will be filmed analyzed. Defensively, players will be coached at specific positions with an opportunity to receive instruction at a secondary position. There are no overnight accommodations on campus for the camps. Lunch day 2 is included.

BRING: baseball glove and hat • baseball cleats and tennis shoes baseball pants and shorts • a willingness to work hard and get better

camp is open to any and all registrants. Registration information can be obtained online at www.subaseballcamps.com or call 205-726-4294

Dates: May 30 - August 4

Camp Straight Street

Centered at the wooded campus of Shades Mountain Community Church in Bluff Park, Camp Straight Street is eight weeks of fun for campers offering all day, early and late programs.

Ages: Grades K3-8th

Dates: June 5-July 28 (8 sessions)

Website: campstraightstreet.com

Address: Main office: 2101 Fourth Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 -- Membership locations in Alabaster, Greystone, Hoover, Pelham, Shades Valley, and Trussville. Youth Centers located in Downtown and Northeast Birmingham.

Email: childcare@ymcabham.org

Website: bhamycamp.org

Ages: 6-14

The

Former Student Fulfills Teacher’s Wish for

Outdoor Classroom

By Anne Ruisi

Homewood Middle School enrichment teacher

Erin Meacham remembers her former student, Garner Johnson, talking about how he wanted to be an Eagle Scout.

Johnson, now a 16-yearold sophomore at Homewood High School, is close to attaining the highest rank in Scouting. To do so, he built tables and a bench for an outdoor classroom for Meacham, who had been her sixth grade teacher, and her colleagues at the middle school.

Meacham said she received an email from Johnson in December pitching the idea.

“It was really sweet,” she said. “I was so surprised.”

A candidate for Eagle Scout must complete an Eagle Scout Service Project to demonstrate leadership while performing a service for the benefit of their community, according to the Eagle Scout Service Project How-To Manual. When it came time to choose a public service project, Johnson said his first thought was to do something for his former teacher.

“She is one of my favorite teachers. I asked her if she needed anything for me to do at school,” and they settled on two picnic tables and a bench for an outdoor classroom, Johnson said.

When the weather is good, Meacham likes her students to enjoy the outdoors while they work on independent research projects. Called “passion projects,” these assignments are based on each student’s interests and strengths, the teacher said.

The only drawback was there was nowhere to sit, so students would sit on the ground. Meacham said that when Johnson asked her about doing a project related to her classroom, she suggested outdoor seating to create an outdoor classroom.

Two 6-foot-long picnic tables and a

bench were proposed, and after meetings with school officials, the project was approved.

Requirements for the public service project call for the scout to raise the money needed to fund the project and to build it. Johnson raised $800 in donations, of which $600 was needed to buy lumber and other materials to build the tables and bench. The remaining $200 was donated to Meacham for classroom supplies.

Johnson has done woodworking projects before, such as on a side deck for trash cans at his father’s house, so he felt comfortable building the tables and bench. He enlisted fellow Scouts to assist with construction – they received service hours toward their own journey up the ranks for helping out – and got the work done in one day.

Johnson and some of his fellow scouts who helped with construction installed the tables and bench over Christmas break.

“When they delivered it, the other scouts who came had been my students” Meacham said. “I had a tearyeyed teacher moment.”

Scouting has been an important part of Johnson’s life since he was in first grade, when he joined the Cub Scouts. In sixth grade he became a Boy Scout and now is a member of Troop 97 out of Trinity United Methodist Church. He hopes to complete the requirements for Eagle Scout by this summer.

“I still have one merit badge to finish,” Johnson said.

Altamont School student Alexander Skowronski has been keeping a spotlight not just on the war in Ukraine but on the young Ukrainian refugees it has created.

At the beginning of the war, Skowronski organized virtual meetings between his Altamont peers and the displaced students, according to a statement from the school. When Ukrainian physician Katia Zaharodnia proposed an idea to help Ukrainian children at Christmas, Skowronski and fellow student Akshay Gaddamanugu accepted the challenge.

Gaddamanugu observed in the statement that, although “you can just send gifts to a war zone and call it a day,” he and Skowronski wanted to make a more significant commitment by addressing the specific Christmas wishes of individual children.

As part of an ongoing project with the school’s C. Kyser Miree Ethical Leadership Center, the pair solicited refugee children’s letters to Saint Nicholas, found translators, worked with Altamont Director of Advancement Stephanie Brooks to raise more than $4,000, bought the items the children requested, organized wrapping events, and ensured that the gifts were delivered on time to refugee centers at Yazlovets and Tlumach.

Knowing that a letter from Saint Nicholas is a beloved tradition, Skowronski and Gaddamanugu even worked with calligrapher Ira Mokrytska to create personalized notes for the children.

The project reached 70 children who have been enduring the horrors of war.

“You brought our children not only the presents, but also you brought back their hope and childhood,” Ukrainian volunteer Daryna Viktorova wrote to Skowronski.

Crash Course

Skowronski’s parents, Bozena and Jan, have been with their son at every step of what he described as a “crash course” in leadership.

The whole family shared in a certificate of appreciation and medal recently presented to them by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Kharkiv

Simmons Choir Snags 1st in Division Competition

The Synergy Show Choir from Simmons Middle School returned from Montgomery after the Jan. 27 Capital City Classic with a first place win in their division. Seventh grader Parker Jones also was one of four finalists in the solo competition.

Synergy is an auditioned group of seventh and eighth grade students from Simmons. Its members compete against choirs from elsewhere in Alabama and in Georgia.

Their show this year is “The Magic School Bus.” Each song portrays a different episode of the television series from the 1990s. Synergy is under the direction of Dan Cater, with show design by Dan Cater and Delle Kincaid. Choreography is created by Delle Kincaid, Farlanda Buchannon and Katie House.

Altamont Students Send Light to Dark Winter in Ukraine

National University of Internal Affairs for their ongoing humanitarian support for Ukraine via the Fortuna Clinical Foundation.

Miree Center projects are longterm commitments, and center Director Beth Dille helps students understand the need for life balance and pacing in what can be a service marathon in addition to challenging academic schedules.

Skowronski said he will take the spring to reflect and plan for how he will continue his support for Ukraine.

He said the Saint Nicholas project honored the resilient spirit of Ukrainians and emphasized the power of individuals to affect the war through communication technology, so his next steps will continue to feature these themes. Consistent communication is essential to the success of his efforts, he said. That includes magnifying the voice of those he serves.

As Viktorova wrote to him after the Saint Nicholas project, “The greatest thing for us, Ukrainians, is to be loud. If we’ll be silent, we will be forgotten and then gone.”

Altamont School students

Alexander Skowronski and Akshay Gaddamanugu, above, led efforts at the school to send Christmas gifts to 70 Ukrainian children.

Courtesy Homewood Schools Courtesy Hoover Schools

pounds with a 3-1 decision over Chelsea’s Kalob Johnstone (42-3) in the championship match to emerge as the Rebels’ only individual winner.

“I can’t say enough about Andrew,” Adams said. “He battled through injuries all season and he battled illness at the state tournament, but he toughed it out.”

The Rebels had three second-place finishers: freshman Stone Phillips (33-8) at 113 pounds, sophomore Andrew Sullivan (28-7) at 145 and senior Harris Mitchell (22-2) at 160.

Spain Park had two individual champions, William Condon at 182 pounds and Rayshod Burts at 285, Condon (49-1) pinned Hoover’s Jack Lamey (43-6) at 5:01 and Burts (52-3) defeated Hewitt-Trussville’s Zack Chatman (50-16) by a 3-0 decision.

The Jaguars also had three wrestlers to finish second: freshman Bradley Williams (56-4) at 138, senior Jackson Mitchell (42-4) at 170, and senior Kyle Oliveira (34-10) at 195.

Hoover senior Ty Sisson (38-8) won the 126-pound title, pinning Enterprise’s Grier Hunt (53-8) at 4:39.

Oak Mountain senior Camden

Tipton (62-7) captured the 113-pound title with a 6-3 decision against the Rebels’ Phillips.

Mountain Brook Can’t Double Up

After winning the Class 6A Wrestling Duals in January, the first wrestling title in school history, Mountain Brook wasn’t able to claim another crown at the state tournament.

The Spartans finished in a thirdplace tie with Mortimer Jordan, both with 134 points. Mountain Brook had defeated Mortimer Jordan 32-27 in the Class 6A Wrestling Duals Finals.

McAdory won the Class 6A state tournament with 160.5 points and Gardendale was second with 138.5. Homewood finished fifth with 122.

Mountain Brook had two wrestlers reach the finals, but both lost.

Sophomore Stephen Springfield (5010) dropped a 7-4 decision to Pike Road’s John Duncan (31-3) at 113 pounds. Spartans senior Allen Baker (40-9) fell 7-3 to Pelham’s Seth Branham (39-1) at 195.

Homewood had two individual champions, freshman Joseph Marcum at 106 and senior Sam Sutton at 138.

Marcum (50-4) defeated McAdory senior Wesley Miller, McAdory (6512) by a 9-5 decision. Sutton (53-2) edged Wetumpka senior Chad Strickland (43-3) 1-0.

year, doesn’t mind how much he plays. He’s just happy to be playing.

“It feels good to be back, especially being back out there with my boys, playing my game and trying to help us get to the state tournament,” Layton

said. “I’m not 100 percent, but I feel good.

“My role is to be a leader and go out there and play hard for my teammates.”

Layton is still headed to Tennessee Tech to play in college. He committed last summer and will sign in the spring.

“When I went up to visit, it felt like a family,” he said. “I really liked the coaches and I wanted to be a part of the

family.”

First, Layton would like to help Mountain Brook return to the state tournament. The Spartans won the 2021 Class 6A state title before Layton arrived but were eliminated in overtime by Huffman in 2022 regional final.

“It would mean a great deal to me,” Layton said. “I’ve never been a part of a state championship team.”

Hoover senior Ty Sisson won the 126-pound title, pinning Enterprise’s Grier Hunt.

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Homewood freshman Joseph Marcum, right, won 6A state championship at 106.

Spain Park’s Rayshod Burts, left, won the class 7A state title at 285.

Oak Mountain’s Camden Tipton, left, captured the 113-pound title with a 6-3 decision over Vestavia’s Stone Phillips.

Wright’s Versatility Pays Dividends for Jaguars

By RuBin E. GRant

Sam Wright was asked to do something during the 2021-22 high school basketball season that he hadn’t done before, and with good reason.

Given his size – he’s 6 feet, 9½ inches – Wright was strictly a lowblock post player during his sophomore season at Spain Park. But with the presence of 6-9 Colin Turner in the post for the Jaguars last season, head coach Chris Laatsch asked Wright to play more on the perimeter to give Turner more room to operate.

“I’d never played on the outside in my life,” Wright said. “Coach Laatsch threw me into that role and I had to learn to shoot the three.”

With Turner now playing at North Georgia, Wright, a senior, is back on the blocks for the Jags, but he can also step outside if need be.

“I’m more versatile,” Wright said. “I’ve been able to combine the knowledge I gained last year on the perimeter with my post skills.”

His inside-outside skills were on display last Thursday in Spain Park’s 54-52 overtime victory against Sparkman in the Class 7A Northeast Regional semifinals at Jacksonville State University. Wright recorded a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds. He made 6 of 8 field goal attempts, including his only 3-pointer, and 8 of 10 free throws.

“It’s been absolutely incredible

what he’s done the last few games,” Laatsch said. “If we need a bucket or a rebound, he goes out and gets it.

“He’s just an unbelievable kid. He’s extremely smart and he’s tough on himself. He holds himself to high standards, not only on the basketball court but in everything.”

High Standards

That includes in the classroom,

Gaydosh Boys Make Papa Proud With Youth Wrestling Titles

By RuBin E. GRant

Jacob Gaydosh likes to keep things in perspective, but he couldn’t contain his joy after watching his sons win youth state wrestling titles.

Clayton Gaydosh, a third-grader, won the 80-pound youth division, and his brother Kenny Gaydosh, a sixthgrader, took first place in the 112-pound youth division while competing for the Skull & Crossbones Wrestling Club in Hoover during the youth state championships Feb. 3-4 at Thompson High School in Alabaster.

They were the first ever brothers from the club to win state titles.

“It was a fun weekend,” Jacob Gaydosh said. “I downplayed it with my boys because the ultimate goal is winning in high school and it is youth wrestling, but I was happy and they were happy.”

The Gaydosh boys weren’t the only Skull & Crossbones wrestlers to win state titles. Brianna Keys, a seventh grader, captured the 100-pound girls division crown.

Jacob Gaydosh, a two-time state champion at Vestavia Hills and former Hoover head wrestling coach, wasn’t the only one celebrating enthusiastically. So was Skull & Crossbones head coach Stewart Holt, who was a twotime state champ at Berry (now Hoover) and a collegiate wrester at Carson-Newman College.

“I was just elated,” Holt said.

“I knew we were having a good sea-

where Wright has a 4.45 grade-point average while taking advanced classes. He scored 29 on the ACT.

“Having high academic standards starts with my parents and grandparents,” Wright said. “They want me to do my best and reach my potential academically.”

Wright’s mom, Maya Britt, is a social studies teacher at Berry Middle School. She also played college basketball at Colgate from 1994 to 1997.

Wright said his height comes from his mother’s side of the family. His mom is 6-0 and she has two sisters, one 6-5 and the other 6-0, who were also college athletes, one in basketball and the other in volleyball.

Wright didn’t hit his growth spurt until high school. He was 6-0 but grew five inches after his freshman year and another four or five inches the past two years.

With his strong academic and basketball skills, he has received several scholarship offers from colleges such as Navy, Colgate, Dartmouth and Berry College.

“I’m going to go visit the Naval Academy and the other schools after our season is over and see how I like them before I decide,” Wright said.

Spain Park (24-6) was scheduled to play Huntsville Tuesday in the Northeast Regional final for the third consecutive year. The Jags won in 2021 and 2022 to advance to the state tournament at Birmingham’s Legacy Arena.

“Obviously, our goal is to win the state championship,” Wright said. “We’ll be one step closer if we can beat Huntsville. It would be awesome to go back to the Final Four.”

son and were wrestling well all season, so I was expecting it to go well. I was ecstatic that the kids could pull it off and win their last match.

“Kenny and my son Joe have been in our program since kindergarten. This is their last year with us. Clayton still has four more years with us.”

First Girls Win

Keys began wrestling because of her dad, Craig Keys, a former wrestler from Nebraska who has been a wrestling assistant coach and head coach in Nebraska, Colorado and Pennsylvania and helps at the club. Her victory represented a milestone for the club.

“Brianna is our first girls champion,” Holt said. “She’s been coming to our club a couple of years. She’s a good wrestler.”

Other wrestlers from the club who placed in the top four in their divisions were: Tyler Foran, second place in the 120-pound youth division; Adrian Lowe, third place in the 120-pound school boy division; Joe Holt, third place in the 120-pound youth division; Jones Meadow, third place in the 120pound youth division; and Corey McCray, fourth place in the 150-pound youth division.

The Skull & Crossbones Wrestling Club includes children from Hoover, Helena, Homewood and McCalla. According to Holt, it has grown from 25 youth participants two years ago to more than 100 this past season.

David P. Adkison, MD

Knee and Shoulder

James R. Bowman III, MD, PHD

Hip & Knee Adult Joint Reconstruction, and General Orthopaedics

Jeffrey R. Cusmariu, MD Sports Medicine,

With his strong academic and basketball skills, Sam Wright has received several scholarship offers from colleges such as Navy, Colgate, Dartmouth and Berry College.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

From left, Kenny Gaydosh, Tyler Foran and Clayton Gaysosh.

Gaydosh boys make papa proud with youth wrestling titles Page 31

SPORTS

Thursday, February 23, 2023 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘GOT IT DONE’

Adams, Rebels Capture Another State Wrestling Title

Wright’s versatility pays dividends for Jaguars Page 31

Layton’s Return a ‘Blessing’ for Spartans’ Basketball Team

By RuBin E. GRant

Kyle Layton was determined not to miss his entire senior season on the Mountain Brook boys basketball team.

It appeared that might happen when Layton tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in July during an AAU game.

“I was going up for a fast-break layup and a dude came over from the opposite block and clipped me,” Layton said. “I landed on my right knee and I heard it pop, so I knew it was serious.”

Three days later, Layton had surgery with the normal recovery and rehab time ranging from nine to 12 months, which would have kept Layton sidelined for the season.

Layton, however, figured he could beat the timeline.

“I knew with my work ethic, I could return before the season was over,” he said.

Sure enough, Layton, a 6-foot guard, was back playing for the Spartans on Jan. 31, 6½ months after his surgery. He appeared in Mountain Brook’s final two regular season games and in the area tournament.

By RuBin E. GRant

Tee Adams can now say he has won as many state wrestling team titles as a coach as he did as a wrestler at his alma mater.

Adams coached Vestavia Hills to the Class 7A state title last weekend in the 2023 AHSAA State Wrestling Championships in Huntsville at the Von Braun Center.

The title was Adams’ third in seven seasons

as the Rebels’ head coach and their state record 17th overall. He also led Vestavia Hills to state championships in 2017 and 2021.

Adams was part of three state championship teams when he wrestled for the Rebels in 19992001, and he was a two-time individual state

champion, in 2001 and 2002.

Vestavia Hills won with 210 points, beating second-place Thompson, which had 195 points.

Spain Park was fifth with 116.5 points and Hoover was sixth with 100.

“I’m happy for the school, the fans, the wrestlers and community,” Adams said.

The Rebels had just one individual champion

in the final round of the three-day event but had a strong showing from top to bottom to seal the 7A title early.

“It was a complete team effort,” Adams said. “All the guys bought in. It was a tight-knit brotherhood and they went out and got it done.”

Senior Andrew Sykes (18-2) won at 220

Last Thursday, he scored eight points, sinking two 3-pointers, in 12 minutes as Mountain Brook routed Parker 71-30 in the Class 6A Northeast Regional semifinals at Jacksonville State University. The Spartans (24-7) were scheduled to play Huffman in the regional final Tuesday with a berth in next week’s state tournament at Birmingham’s Legacy Arena on the line.

“It’s a blessing to have him back,” Mountain Brook coach Tyler Davis said. “It’s a testament to his hard work, the physical therapist’s hard work and his doctors.

“I cannot say we didn’t miss him, but with him being out it helped some other players to step into bigger roles.”

Layton led the Spartans in scoring last season, averaging 14.9 points while making 105 3-pointers. Since his return, he’s been on a minutes restriction and coming off the bench.

“We’re working him in there in different rotations,” Davis said.

‘Good to Be Back’

Layton, who transferred to Mountain Brook from the Dallas, Texas, area before his junior See LAYTON, page 30 See WRESTLING, page 30

Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Vestavia Hills senior Andrew Sykes celebrates winning the 7A state title at 220 pounds with Vestavia Hills assistant coach, David Lundberg, left and Rebel head coach Tee Adams, right. Vestavia won the team title with 210 points, beating second-place Thompson, which had 195 points.

Homewood senior Sam Sutton edged Wetumpka senior Chad Strickland 1-0 to win the Class 6A title at 138 pounds.

‘It was a complete team effort. All the guys bought in. It was a tight-knit brotherhood and they went out and got it done.’

TEE ADAMS, VESTAVIA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING COACH

Senior Kyle Layton led the Spartans in scoring last season, averaging 14.9 points while making 105 3-pointers.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

‘It’s a testament to his hard work, the physical therapist’s hard

work and his

doctors.’